Connection—Essential for Building Relationships and for Research
As qualitative researchers, we often talk about uncovering hidden truths, but at the heart of our work lies something even more fundamental—connection. Connection is the invisible thread that binds our work together, enabling us to build trust, foster understanding, and create insights that truly resonate.
I was reminded of this recently when reflecting on a project where the magic of connection transformed the outcome. The participants were initially hesitant, offering guarded responses. But as the conversation flowed, a rapport began to form. By the end, we were not just collecting data—we were uncovering deeply personal and meaningful insights. This was only possible because of the connection built in that room.
Connection is essential at every stage of the research process. When we build rapport with participants, we create a space where they feel comfortable sharing their stories. When we collaborate with clients, a strong connection helps ensure that our insights are not just heard but understood and acted upon. Even in the analysis phase, connection plays
a role as we link seemingly disparate ideas to form a coherent and impactful narrative.
Yet, building and maintaining connections is not without its challenges. The shift to virtual environments, the demands of tight deadlines, and the complexities of working across cultures and geographies can make connections harder to achieve. But as researchers, we are uniquely equipped to rise to these challenges. We listen, observe, and adapt. We ask questions not just to gather answers but to truly understand.
At QRCA, connection is not just a value—it’s our foundation. This year’s Annual Conference in Philadelphia was a testament to the power of connection, bringing our community together to share ideas, experiences, and inspiration. Looking ahead, the Worldwide Conference in Berlin this May offers another opportunity to strengthen our global ties and learn from one another. Beyond these flagship events, QRCA’s SIGs, chapters, and programs continue to provide spaces for members to connect and grow.
As we move forward, I encourage all of us to think about the connections we build in our work and in our community. What relationships have shaped your journey as a researcher? How can we deepen our connections to make our work even more meaningful? I also invite you to lean into the opportunities QRCA offers to strengthen these bonds, whether by attending our events, joining a SIG, or mentoring a fellow researcher.
Connection is the foundation of qualitative research. It’s what turns data into stories, questions into understanding, and research into impact. Let’s continue to nurture connection—not only in the work we do but in the relationships we build along the way.
Sincerely,
Jeff Hecker
