The Power of Emotional Connections: Reflections from TMRE

By Collette Eccleston, PhD, SVP Center for Human Understanding at Material

Earlier this month, I attended TMRE in Orlando, Florida. In March 2020, right before we recognized that there was a global pandemic, I was at a conference in New Orleans. I was hesitant to return to a large conference. Not to mention, I’m an introvert. Despite my trepidation, I thoroughly enjoyed the in-person experience at TMRE. It was a powerful testament to the importance of human connection in knowledge and learning.

In today’s world, we receive an overwhelming amount of information. Much of that information is shared digitally, requiring little in-person, interpersonal interaction. And a lot of it is dispensable; it won’t have a significant impact on our lives. But knowledge is different than information. Knowledge is gained when the information is relevant and remembered. Being physically together, having shared experiences with colleagues sets the stage for gaining knowledge.

Engaging with colleagues at TMRE, I was consistently reminded of the real-world impact key behavioral science principles have on our everyday interactions and perceptions – from identity, to emotion, to memory.

As social beings, what we attend to is shaped by our identities. But, in the work context, understanding others’ identity and sharing who we are is not often prioritized. In emails, on video calls, we often get straight to the business at hand. And yet, identity is a major factor in determining what information people pay attention to, how they interpret it and whether and how they act. Specifically, people are biased towards engaging with information that is self-relevant. As I reflect on the conference, I notice that some of the more popular talks addressed a shared identity as researchers – how researchers can get a seat at the table, have impact, be leaders who drive the business. I was deeply engrossed in Katy Milkman’s keynote address. Our shared identity as behavioral scientists meant I was genuinely interested in the topic. And the fact that I moderated the Q+A meant I paid extra attention. More than a week later, I find bits of the talk coming to mind and sparking some new ideas for influencing behavior.

Over 3.5 days at TMRE, there was a wealth of terrific information presented. The reality is that there are few facts and specific findings that I will remember. Instead, most of my memories are centered around people and moments that involve some emotion. An update I’d received from home triggered a deep conversation about parenting which created a bond with a fellow conference attendee. From a luncheon with a group of women sharing career reflections, I took away invaluable advice. Someone sitting at my table told a story about the last time he cried, which made me cry.

Conferences – being together and having shared experiences – are a great setting for gaining knowledge. Learning and gaining knowledge are also critical in the context of our day-today work lives. To do so, don’t overlook human connection. Understand the identities of others and share a bit of your own. Keep in mind that the moments that people will likely take away are those that stir some emotion.

I did leave the conference with a little cold. But the time to reflect on our industry and make genuine connections transformed my thinking in small but meaningful ways. I’m certain the knowledge I gained will last longer than the cold.