EyeWorld is the official news magazine of the American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery.
Issue link: https://digital.eyeworld.org/i/78721
January 2012 EW NEWS & OPINION 23 marketing suite," Ms. Beiting said. "Between our two groups of mem- bership, we have a unique opportu- nity to try to ensure the field matches that new face of ophthal- mology that's coming out of resi- dency." Ms. Beiting plans on expanding the number of program topics during the next year to include programs on understanding genera- tional differences, leadership devel- opment, work-life balance, and developing a personal elevator speech, to name a few. Likewise, she would like to see more networking events for the group. "Some of our members might like going to the events at the con- ferences, others might enjoy our mentoring programs, which can be done more on their own time. Maybe members want to listen to a webinar because they can't get to the meetings," Ms. Beiting said. "OWL provides leadership and ca- reer development possibilities that not only appeal across that spectrum but that are available to its members when they need them." Dr. Link wants to reach out to the membership to increase involve- ment. "I'm extremely proud of the collaboration talks we've had with WIO, and I'd like to foster more to look for the synergies to help us strengthen women leaders in both the clinical and industry spaces," she said. In particular, Dr. Link wants to encourage more member feedback on its programs—without communi- cation the organization cannot know if it's meeting members' needs. An additional goal for the or- ganization is to "do a deep dive into our membership and create internal resumes," so when members are looking for advice they can tap into the collective talent in the group for answers. Most women are glad to share their expertise, and OWL "wants to develop a committee structure that's stronger and larger to increase mem- ber engagement," Dr. Link said. "Once we know what people's strengths and interests are, it's easier to call them and ask for help on a specific area or topic." Dr. Link also hopes to continue expanding membership to women in their 20s and 30s—people just starting or at the mid-level in their careers. "I want to push the envelope to continue to help women get to the next rung on the ladder in their per- sonal lives as well as their profes- sional lives," Dr. Link said. "I see OWL being a relevant factor in those efforts." EW Contact information Beiting: jan@wordsmithconsulting.com Link: marshalink@4link.biz An ASCRS Membership For every stage of your career Whether you're just beginning or experienced in cataract and refractive surgery, ASCRS is the professional society that's right for every stage of your career. Mentors and Innovators As an experienced anterior segment ophthalmologist, you've come to understand the importance of innovation and collaboration. It's through collaboration that ophthalmology improves and expands—at times in great leaps and at times through subtle change. Through its many educational and networking services, ASCRS provides an effective forum for the debate of new ideas and the incremental improvement of technique and outcomes. ASCRS offers the means and the unrestricted opportunity to advance the profession and yourself. Join ASCRS today! The Society for Surgeons AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CATARACT AND REFRACTIVE SURGERY 4000 Legato Road, Suite 700, Fairfax, VA 22033 • 703-591-2220 • www.ASCRS.org