As I hinted earlier, I have started a Women in Science Career Skills and Discussion Group. Tonight was our first meeting- and I am going to say, success. I am really pleased, actually, because after I called Mom for a pep talk earlier, the discussion went really well- we got through the main points I wanted to cover, got to hear some interesting things from some neat diverse ladies and seem to have some ambition for regular meetings. In fact the Last Thursday of the Month is the new semi-official meet-up date.
I was intimidated because I had invited some people I don't know, thinking this might lend some formality that would keep us on topic (and it did). But, after seeing so much enthusiasm for this idea (Get together as female scientists and talk about issues that impact our careers-uniquely or not), I knew that there was a need that needed to be filled- so I decided just to be the catalyst. Of course there are lots of topics that can and should be covered in this type of forum, so I don't doubt we'll have lots to talk about for months to come. This week we talked about developing and having a career plan, concluding that you need to prepare for opportunities before you want to take your next steps- and that your network should be there to help. Next month's topic is Networking- moderated by a more senior scientist with an enviable network. (Although, as the youngest, most junior one around the table tonight, that doesn't say too much)
My measure of success was, once we made it through my list of discussion topic, everyone hung around to keep chatting. One person brought an extra friend, and there were lots of "I'll be bringing someone new next time"s, so this must be valuable. Also, very easy to organize- as I am realizing many of these things are. A couple emails, a bowl of fruit and some wine- and I've already got great advice coming in!
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5 comments:
First Save Phoenix, then OSSA, and now WISDiG, leadership just comes naturally to you, doesn't it? There is a hint here about what you are good at and what compliments your skills and talents. Rare is the solo scientist who finds some heroic mystery in solitary pursuit of truth. Good teams are much more successful at completing tasks and projects. Building a group and finding concensus can be a very powerful way to develop profession goals. Remember this in your search for your particles of truth in the future.....
Hmm, I hadn't thought of it like that. I don't think of myself as someone who wants to be a leader- just that there are things I want done and can get that to happen. Is there a difference?
Some people lead by absolute charisma, that arresting presence tht we probably think of as a "natural leadership". That gets you elected places, etc. What I'm seeing in you is a facility for bringing people together for common cause which is valuable at a more subtle level but leadership nonetheless. Use it, develop it, and your own interests will be magnified by the effort of your team. And yes, that can be a gender issue for lots of people to deal with, even in our modern times...
What, you don't think I have charisma? ;)
I think you have lots of charisma! Congratulations on your new group. You really are very good at these things.
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