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2024 Launching Leadership: Navigating the Journey of Women as First-Time Executives & Founders Are you a woman leader on the cusp of stepping into executive or founder roles? Join our intimate and insightful forum, specifically designed for women like you. Hear from a panel of accomplished women CEOs and founders who have successfully navigated the challenges and triumphs of leadership. Our 'Launching Leadership: Navigating the Journey of Women as First-time Executives and Founders' event offers a unique opportunity to learn from their experiences, gain practical advice, and connect with like-minded women leaders. This in-person event will feature a panel discussion featuring four experienced women CEOs and Founders, an intimate forum ensuring meaningful connections and interactive Q&A, and a networking session to connect with fellow women leaders. This event will be moderated by Rachele Ryan, Director of Partnerships at LabCentral. Panelists to include: Vered Bisker-Leib, Former CEO of Compass Therapeutics Location: The Termeer Foundation, 1393 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02215 LinkedIn for Personal Branding: How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market In today's technology-driven age, your LinkedIn presence holds immense power as the primary digital impression you make on potential clients, hiring managers, partners, and colleagues. LinkedIn offers the opportunity to craft a powerful profile, foster meaningful engagement within your network, and harness the potential of an amazing content platform to enhance your visibility and credibility. Discover how to navigate the impact of artificial intelligence while staying true to your personal authenticity. Learn and be inspired to: Location: Lab Central, 700 Main Street, Lobby, Cambridge, MA 02139 Rockstar Breakfast If you would love to learn about industry achievements and experiences first-hand from some of the most respected leaders in their fields, you won't want to miss this event WEST's Rockstar Breakfast. Join us for an intimate event where the panel of leading women in venture capital will share their roles, career journey, professional achievements, lessons learned, inspirations, advice, and more. The panel will feature Sarah Gheuens, Chief Medical Officer & Head of R&D at Agios Pharmaceuticals, Hui Gao, Senior Director of Translational Research at Agios and Megan Wind-Rotolo, Senior Director of Translational Medicine at Agios. Registration for this event is limited to maintain an intimate, engaging environment. Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 64 Sidney St., Heliopolis Conference Room, Cambridge, MA 02139 Building Relationship Capital Building a professional network is more than just asking people to connect on LinkedIn or trading business cards at an event. It is about building relationships over time that lead to mutual benefit. Learn how to build your “relationship capital” through a variety of active and passive strategies that ensure your name stays top of mind so opportunities flow your way. This workshop will be lead by Ingrid Goldbloom Bloch.
Location: Zoom WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Location: Foley & Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02199 Work-Life Harmony: Debunking the Myth, Defining Your Balance Join us for an empowering workshop where we'll explore the why, what, and how of achieving work-life harmony. We'll tackle the biggest myth surrounding work-life balance - that it will cost you career success - and discover how balance can actually fuel your professional growth.
Why: Understand the importance of work-life harmony for your career, relationships, and well-being.
What: Define what work-life balance means to you, identify your priorities, and recognize what you need more of in your life.
How: Take small, clear, and specific actions to achieve your desired balance, to enhance success and fulfillment.
In this interactive workshop, you'll:
Leave with clarity, next steps and the confidence to achieve work-life harmony that supports your career and well-being. Register now! This session will be led by WEST's own Pallavi Srivastava, CEO & Executive Coach with The Wellbeing Ways LLC, and Author of the book 'Relationship With The Self.' Location: Zoom Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: AI & Computational Science In the world of science, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps Panelists to include: Maria Moya - Sr Staff ML Engineer, GeneDx Location: Zoom Influence Without Authority It is critical to be able to influence others regardless of position, especially when working cross-functionally and cross-culturally. It is more effective to use personal power to influence others to build commitment, not just compliance. To get things done in today's organizations, we must positively influence others, such as direct reports, colleagues, managers, clients, and suppliers, both inside and outside the organization. Typical influence goals include gaining buy-in for one's ideas, securing cooperation, attuning agendas, and sustaining action. The challenge is to understand how to implement a successful influence plan using the most effective skills. The Influence Without Authority virtual workshop will provide participants with this plan, along with an awareness of the different influence styles that can be applied. Location: Zoom The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier That Holds Successful Women in Place Fireside Chat With Author Ellen Connelly Taaffe Taaffe explains why women reach a certain level and then encounter barriers that prevent them from taking the next step in their careers as expectations rise. She brings a new framework to this conversation, with immediately actionable ideas, identifying the barriers that come from within. Join WEST Advisory Board members and executive coaches Etta Jacobs and Tammy Gooler Loeb for an engaging and enlightening fireside chat with the book’s author, Ellen Connelly Taaffe. Bring your questions and discussion points. You don't have to have read the book to enjoy this conversation and gain insight into breaking your own hidden barriers! Location: Zoom Show Her The Money SHOW HER THE MONEY is a documentary focused on raising awareness about an uncomfortable fact that underpins today's venture capital landscape: each year, startups founded solely by women receive less than 2% of available venture funding in the US. The movie follows four visionary women founders as they endure uphill battles to turn their ideas into reality. In spite of their dedication and passion, as well as constantly being challenged, these women, with the financial support and mentorship of their angel investors, become even more determined, resourceful, and resilient. Each business has the potential to become a “unicorn" - a billion dollar business, and over the course of the film, we witness that exponential growth a it happens. Featuring rock-star female investors who invest in diverse women entrepreneurs with innovations that will change the world, Show Her The Money reminds us that money is power and to achieve true equality, investing in women is imperative. Following the movie, we will host a panel discussion. We are lucky enough to have women from the film joining us for an intimate discussion. Gauri Nair, Senior Director, Business Development at AbCellera, will moderate the panel. Panelists will include:
Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 88 Sidney St., Cambridge, MA The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier That Locks Successful Women in Place - Session 3 In this book club series, we will meet during four (virtual) sessions to navigate and discuss the three sections of Taaffe’s book and conclude the series with a session with the author herself. While it is advisable to read each section of the book prior to the sessions, you will benefit from participating even if you have not read the full section we are discussing. This is a no-judgment book club! Come, learn, and share what you know from your own experience. Session 3 - Break Through: To the Gifts Across the Threshold We will step through the mirrored door into our growth with grit and gravitas. As we develop the awareness of our fears, and challenges, we will step forward to apply the strategies we learned, with greater courage and confidence. Most of all, we will have strengthened our sense of community and common language throughout this series, to support one another as we each take steps to carry ourselves in ways that align with our interests, values, and goals. Location: Zoom Networking for Introverts: How to Effectively Connect Networking and connecting effectively are pivotal for professional growth. While some find it intuitive, it can be daunting for introverts who feel drained from vs energized by social interactions. Attempting to adopt extroverted strategies often exacerbates discomfort and even causes some people to dread the idea of networking. To support their networking endeavors, WEST is offering this event tailored to introverts with practical tools and strategies, fostering authentic and confident connections. All are welcome to attend 'Networking for Introverts: How to Connect Effectively' to explore a refreshing approach to networking. In addition to insights from our panelists, introverts who've navigated networking hurdles, attendees will engage in interactive games, facilitated discussions, and open networking sessions. Our goal is to provide a supportive environment where introverts can thrive and connect with authenticity and confidence. Learning outcomes:
Panelists include
Location: Be Biopharma, One Kendall Square, Bldg 200, 3rd Floor, Be Bio Cafe, Cambridge, MA The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier That Holds Successful Women in Place - Session 2 In this book club series, we will meet during four (virtual) sessions to navigate and discuss the three sections of Taaffe’s book and conclude the series with a session with the author herself. While it is advisable to read each section of the book prior to the sessions, you will benefit from participating even if you have not read the full section we are discussing. This is a no-judgment book club! Come, learn, and share what you know from your own experience. Session 2 - Break Away: Relearning Success Strategies We will focus on five strategies for success that can, at times, unintentionally sideline us. Our discussion will explore the ways in which we can use these strategies to work for us vs. against us. Ellen Taaffe calls these the five perils of success:
We will examine how these strategies might have served us earlier in our careers, and how they can become limiting behaviors as we advance. Then we will explore different skills and new approaches that can serve our goals to grow as leaders. Location: Zoom Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Drug Discovery In the world of science, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This panel will include subject matter experts in drug discovery teams including experts in: biology/pharmacology, chemistry, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, translational development, and toxicology. The panel discussion will be moderated by Siennah Greenfield, Scientist II- Drug Metabolism, Pharmacokinetics and Modeling at Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Panelists include:
Location: Zoom The Mirrored Door: Break Through the Hidden Barrier That Holds Successful Women in Place In this book club series, we will meet during four (virtual) sessions to navigate and discuss the three sections of Taaffe’s book and conclude the series with a session with the author herself. While it is advisable to read each section of the book prior to the sessions, you will benefit from participating even if you have not read the full section we are discussing. This is a no-judgment book club! Come, learn, and share what you know from your own experience. Session 1 - Break Open: How We See Ourselves We will identify the well-intentioned norms we learned earlier and unpack the socialization that supposedly prepared us for our careers, yet may have also created expectations that did not align well with the workplace cultures we landed in. Some of these experiences may have seeded doubts and held us back professionally or left us feeling unsure how to move forward. We will explore and discuss ways to untangle our expectations to see the strategies for moving our goals forward. Location: Zoom Piloting Your Way Through Chaos: How to Achieve Career Success Amidst Organizational Turbulence Managing your career (and your sanity) is a challenge in the best of times, and messy workplace dynamics only make it more difficult. Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring seasoned leaders who endured workplace challenges and emerged professionally and personally stronger. From navigating bankruptcies to succeeding amidst acquisitions and reorganizations, our panelists have steered their careers through challenging times. Their insights and advice will help you safeguard your career trajectory and preserve your sanity during times of uncertainty. Reserve your spot today and embark on the path to career resilience and success. Elena Spencer - Board President of WEST and Co-Founder, President, & CEO of The Kendall Square Orchestra Location: LabCentral, 700 Main Street, North, Cambridge, MA 02139 Women in Leadership Bootcamp Nucleate and WEST are hosting a virtual Women in Leadership Bootcamp. This event include several hours of workshops and talks from leaders in the life sciences on the topics of leadership styles, building confidence, and effective team dynamics and management. Attendance is limited. 11:00-11:10 AM: Welcome Location: Zoom ElevateHER: Women of Color Leaders Panel Discussion & Networking Join Massachusetts Women of Color Coalition (MAWOCC) and Women in the Enterprise of Science and Technology (WEST) for an inspiring evening celebrating the achievements and contributions of women of color in STEM. This dynamic event will feature a panel of accomplished professionals sharing their personal stories, career journeys, and insights on overcoming challenges in the field. Engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion on topics such as:
There will be plenty of networking time to connect with fellow attendees, panelists, and industry leaders in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This is a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network. Panelists include:
Location: Foley & Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave, Suite #2500, Boston, MA 02199 GPS Your Career: Navigating Unique Career Paths Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring local seasoned experts sharing their career transformation stories. Whether you're considering a career change or simply want to explore your options, this session offers valuable insights into navigating transitions. Discover firsthand how these professionals successfully made the leap from one function, industry, or career landscape to another. This session is a more intimate forum for learning from the experts why they changed, how they changed – and the impact this has had on their career journey. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable lessons and discover new possibilities in your own career journey. This event will be moderated by Jyothsna Visweswaraiah, Director, Drug Creation, Seismic Therapeutic. Panelists will include:
Location: Seismic Therapeutic, 250 Arsenal Place, Suite 210, Watertown, MA 02472 Mapping Your Career: How to Find the Way to Your Ideal Position You enjoy your work, and yet you know you want more in your career. In this interactive workshop, you will explore what is most meaningful and important to you in your career. We will look at what energizes you most in your work and how you can become more engaged and challenged as you move forward. Location: Pfizer, 610 Main St., Cambridge, MA 02139 Invest in Your Finances: Personal Finance Strategies 6 Money Questions Women should be asking about their Finances Seminar is a high-level overview to help women become comfortable with and understand the importance of investing. The aim is to create awareness around the importance of getting started early and staying on track to achieve desired financial success.
Simplify Your Spending and Saving Strategies Seminar is an educational program designed to help clients and prospective clients sharpen their spending and saving strategy. Participants will learn about:
This session will be led by Steven Lindale, a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones. Location: Zoom Empowering YOU: How to Be a Great Coach or Mentor Embark on a journey to uncover the key points of coaching & mentoring in the workplace. Explore the nuances (differences and similarities) between the two powerful approaches while digging into the foundational elements of the coaching relationship. Discover how to create an intentional coaching alliance setting the stage for success for you and your team. Dive into practical, hands-on exercises (on active listening and powerful questioning) to immediately kickstart and get the most out of your coaching and mentoring journey. Plus, learn invaluable techniques for giving and receiving feedback from all stakeholders. Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop where learning meets action! Location: Monte Rosa Therapeutics, 321 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118 Breaking Boundaries: Stories from Asian & Pacific Islander Trailblazers in Science & Technology Join WEST to promote and engage talent diversity in the biotech industry. This event is focused on enhancing the representation of Asian & Pacific Islander groups in science and technology, breaking barriers, navigating challenges, and building relationships with the community and peers. There will be a panel discussion and networking. This panel will be moderated by Lesley Chan, Senior Director, CMC lead of Sickle Cell Disease Program, bluebird bio. Panelists include:
Location: Bayer Co.Lab Cambridge, 238 Main St., 2nd Floor, Cambridge, MA 02142 Introverted & Influential: Strategies for Visibility & Presence Visibility and presence play crucial roles in shaping career trajectories. While it may seem that those with an extraverted preference tend to receive more recognition, those with a preference for introversion have many unique qualities that can help drive their professional visibility and success. This 90-minute session, led by Laurie Bohn, will highlight the strengths and strategies those with introverted preferences can use to support their growth. Focusing on practical and achievable approaches, the workshop will offer insight on how to effectively leverage natural tendencies to build a strong, impactful presence at work, proving that success is not about how loud you are, but the significance of your contributions.
Location: Zoom WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Location: Beam Therapeutics, 238 Main St., 6th floor, Cambridge, MA Women Leaders in Food & Agricultural Science & Technology Please join us for networking and an engaging panel discussion featuring amazing local leaders sharing about their careers in agricultural science and technology. This Earth Day event offers a unique opportunity to gain insights from pioneering women who are shaping the future of food and agriculture. In addition to thought-provoking discussions, we'll provide delicious food and refreshing drinks to fuel your networking experience. Don’t miss the chance to connect and cultivate new professional relationships. As a special interactive activity, you'll have the opportunity to get hands-on and create seed bombs to take home. These seed bombs not only serve as a fun DIY project but also contribute to environmental sustainability by promoting green spaces and biodiversity. Come join us for an inspiring evening celebrating the achievements and contributions of women leaders in agricultural science and technology. Panelists include:
Location: Inari, One Kendall Square, Building 600/700, Suite 7-501, 5th Floor, Cambridge, MA 02139 Accelerate Your Career Through Personal Branding & Marketing Yourself When we use the term “marketing”, most people think of products, services, and commodities. How about ourselves – marketing our talents, accomplishments, and value – inside our organizations and outside within our profession, industry, and community? Are we comfortable talking about ourselves in this way? More importantly, are we prepared to talk about ourselves in this way – packaging our talents and accomplishments – showcasing them, leveraging them, and presenting our value internally within our organizations and externally within our chosen fields, industries & communities? Successful professionals know what they have to offer, what they want, and how to advocate for themselves. Identifying, creating, and articulating one's “personal brand" empowers us to 'own our career', seize opportunities we aspire to achieve, tell our stories, and self-advocate. Personal branding and the ability to market ourselves are essential ingredients for successful career management at all stages of our careers. Learn how to create a framework to embrace and develop this core competency. Key Objectives:
Location: Zoom GPS Your Career: Know Your Why When it comes to your career, are you traveling on the path you intended? For many of us, our work life has changed in ways we would not have anticipated. It is natural to pause, reflect periodically, and ask yourself: Is this job working for me? What is important about the work I do in this career, industry, role, or company? WHY am I doing this?
This is the second session in a 3-part series focused on Career Mapping and Planning. During session 2, you will reflect on your career experiences to articulate the priorities that have influenced your professional choices. In this interactive session, you will identify the values that drive your work preferences and assess the degree to which you are aligning certain choices with your values. This will enable you to consider how your values may (or may not) be shaping the decisions that are driving your career.
Speakers will Include: Tammy Gooler Loeb - Executive Coach, Author, & Podcast host, Tammy Gooler Loeb Coaching & Consulting Location: Zoom WoW- WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Location: Foley & Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02199 How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables and time tables. At home some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. We’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. This event will be led by Amy Rebecca Gay, the Founder of Iris Bridge Coaching & Consulting. Location: Zoom Conquer Your Imposter Syndrome to Achieve Your Goals Do you hesitate to speak up because you worry that you’ll sound foolish? Do you question whether you have what it takes to successfully perform your role? Do you worry that the people around you are so much better qualified than you are? If so, you likely struggle with Impostor Syndrome, a term for the feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy many professionals face, particularly as they reach higher levels of success. Here you'll gain a deeper understanding of Impostor Syndrome and its effects on high-achieving professionals. You’ll also identify common triggers of impostor syndrome and key strategies for overcoming feelings of self-doubt. This session will be led by Kim Meninger. Location: Zoom GPS Your Career: Plotting Your Career Coordinates Are you curious about how to map out your career? Wondering how best to put some great dreams and aspirations into a gameplan for the future? Maybe you’re looking at what you need to grow into the next great role? Have we got the event for you! This is the first session in a 3-part series, focused solely on Career Mapping and Planning. For session 1, we look at how to evaluate your current strengths, skills, experience and development areas, and how to connect that with where you want to go, providing some tools and tricks to consider when “GPS-ing” your career. Speakers will Include: Jyothsna Visweswaraiah - Director, Drug Creation, Seismic Therapeutic Location: Bayer, 238 Main St., 6th Floor, Cambridge, MA International Women's Day Networking, Panel, & Concert Join Women in the Enterprise of Science and Technology (WEST) and Kendall Square Orchestra (K²O) to celebrate the trailblazers of music and science this International Women's Day! The evening will start with networking and appetizers hosted by WEST followed by a panel featuring leaders from both the life science and classical music fields. The panel will focus on the theme for International Women's Day 2024 - Inspire Inclusion - and will explore the similarities and differences between the sciences and the arts on topics relating to career development, representation, and what has inspired them on their career journeys. Finally, enjoy K²O's concert and witness the world premiere of Francine Trester's 'In Her Element,' a musical tribute to pioneering women scientists, alongside powerful performances of Grazyna Bacewicz's 'Overture' and Amy Beach's 'Gaelic' Symphony. This special concert honors the innovative contributions of women, past and present. Don't miss this inspiring journey of resilience, innovation, and groundbreaking discoveries!
Panelists Include:
Location: Sanders Theater, 45 Quincy St., Cambridge, MA 02138 Rockstar Lunch If you would love to learn about industry achievements and experiences first-hand from some of the most respected leaders in their fields, you won't want to miss this event WEST's Rockstar Lunch. Join us for an intimate event where the panel of leading women in venture capital will share their roles, career journey, professional achievements, lessons learned, inspirations, advice, and more. The panel will feature Christine Brennan, Managing Director at Vertex Ventures and Marian Nakada, Vice President of Venture Investments at Johnson & Johnson-JJDC. Registration for this event is limited to maintain an intimate, engaging environment. Location: Zoom Get to Know WEST Sponsorship Open House Join us for a special open house event for companies interested learning more about partnership and sponsorship opportunities with WEST. You can network with WEST Board Members. We will talk about the benefits of partnering with WEST and going to WEST events, how our programming can be a resource, and much more. Location: Zoom Leadership of Innovation: Building Strategic Leadership Skills in Science & Technology Leaders in the science and technology industries face extraordinary challenges – and opportunities – because they work in highly innovative organizations which feature rapid change, fast growth, and shifting priorities. This presentation will cover the key skills required for effective leadership in science and technology organizations, the challenges faced when leading innovation, and ways to improve leadership practices. In this high-impact session, attendees gain actionable takeaways on:
This program is custom crafted for those working in science and technology who want to maximize their impact in their organizations. Location: Zoom Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Commercial, Marketing, Market Access, & Strategic Pricing This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This event will be moderated by Alissa Brown of Sanofi. Panelists include:
Location: Zoom Unconscious Bias: How Do We Recognize It In Ourselves? In this very interactive session, attendees will look at Unconscious Bias and apply what we learn to work together in a cohesive environment using proven communication and connection strategies. Throughout the session, attendees participate in role-playing using real-life examples to help us recognize our own unconscious bias and how it impacts the organization. This is done through self-awareness and self-reflection. These examples will help us consider "How did that situation make us feel?", what you thought about while the situation was happening, and" what did you learn about yourself and others?" Kevin Coleman will provide practical tips that help you manage situations positively and productively. Learning Points:
Location: Zoom Rockstar Breakfast If you would love to learn about industry achievements and experiences first-hand from some of the most respected leaders in their fields, you won't want to miss this event. WEST's Rockstar Breakfast will feature Sarb Shergill, Corporate VP at Novo Nordisk and Marie Louise Sveen, Head of US R&D Operations at Novo Nordisk. Join us for an intimate event where they will share their roles, career journey, professional achievements, lessons learned, inspirations, advice, and more. Registration for this event is limited to maintain an intimate, engaging environment. Location: Novo Nordisk, 75 Hayden Ave., Lexington, MA 02421 Wake Up & Wondershift: A Journey to Personal Transformation Drawing from over three decades of experience working with individuals and teams, Judy explores five core areas of focus that she has identified as crucial for instigating profound and enduring shifts in both business and in life. These insights have been cultivated over her extensive career, during which she has guided countless individuals and teams in their pursuit of a more harmonious, imaginative, and purpose-driven existence. This session will be led by Judy Goldberg. Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 88 Sidney St., Cambridge, MA 02139 2023 WEST's 6th Annual Holiday Networking Event WEST and Cooley invite you to a Holiday Cocktail Party for an evening of networking and festive food and drinks. Please join us to celebrate the holidays, connect with members, exchange ideas, learn about job openings and more. Location: Cooley, 500 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 Networking Night with Alnylam's iThrive & SAGA ERGs, OUTbio, & WEST WEST's networking events are some of our most popular and well attended programs. We are thrilled to be partnering with Alnylam's iThrive & SAGA ERGs along with OUTbio for a Networking Night. We welcome all to register to join us for appetizers, drinks, and networking with other STEM professionals. Registration for WEST attendees is limited to 50 people, so don't miss your chance to register! Location: Alnylam, 675 W Kendall St., Cambridge, MA 02142 WEST Mentoring Program To help mentees achieve a personal or career goal by using small mentoring groups (pods) to obtain diverse perspectives that will provide an enriching experience for mentees and enable execution on goals through focused actions. During the application process, mentees will rate their interest in key career and personal development topics that will be used for matching their core pod. Mentees will also have the opportunity to explore the other topics offered and/or mentors for their flex pod time each session. Location: Zoom Giving & Receiving Feedback: Discover How to Make These Conversations Easier- For Both of You! The goal of this workshop is for participants to understand that giving and receiving feedback is not one-size-fits all. They will reflect on what they need to feel safe/comfortable receiving feedback and they'll learn how to customize their feedback for anyone on their team—including their manager.
Participants will learn 4 basic steps to giving meaningful feedback in a way that feels safe for both the giver and receiver.
They'll learn the importance of appreciation in offering feedback.
They'll walk away with three questions they can use to start any feedback discussion.
This workshop will be lead by Etta Jacobs.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Members: $5; Non-Members: $15 More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2023-11-28-giving-receiving-feedback WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Location: Bayer USA, 238 Main St., 6th Floor, Cambridge, MA Get on Board: Inside the Board of Directors If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. This event will be moderated by Kellye Eversole, President, Eversole Associates. The panelists will include: Ann LaFrance, former law partner, global executive and strategic advisor Location: Foley & Lardner LLP, 111 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 02199 Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Clinical, Regulatory, Patient Reported Outcomes & Analytical Development This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel will be moderated by Siennah Greenfield, Principal Scientist, DMPK, Pfizer. Panelists will include:
Location: Zoom Stories in STEM: Successfully Navigating Burnout to Thrive on the Other Side During our 60 minutes together, we’ll dive into the topic of burnout, specifically:
This will be the interactive session you’ve been craving. You will hear from a variety of people including stories from people who have overcome the challenges of burnout. You’ll walk away with a start to a personalized action plan with effective self-monitoring strategies to avoid getting caught in another burnout circumstance, and to thrive in your career. The workshop will be lead by Yasha Dwivedi and Karin von Hodenberg. Location: Zoom How to Be Inclusive When Differences Are Less Visible Diversity and inclusion strengthen organizations by bringing a variety of perspectives that reflect individual strengths to collectively generate better ideas. Join WEST, Pfizer, & RANGAM for a panel discussion on advancing inclusion when differences are less visible. The panelists will share experiences and suggestions for what organizations can do to be inclusive of these kinds of differences. This event will be moderated by Dave Kearon, Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships, Rangam. This event will include catered appetizers. Panelists will include: Kate Doyle, Continuous Improvement Specialist, Biotech Operations Pfizer, Inc. Location: Pfizer, 610 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 Quiet Leader, Loud Results Author Chat A practical primer to help you grow in your comfort and authenticity as a leader In an increasingly complex world where leaders are in short supply, people of all personality types are needed to lead. This is a book by a quiet leader for current and aspiring quiet leaders, building on the experiences of experienced quiet leaders who have also road-tested different ways to be effective without being the loudest person in the room. Location: Takeda, 300 Massachusetts Ave., Room 300MA 6116-6118, Cambridge, MA WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Location: Be Biopharma, Inc., One Kendall Square, Bldg 200, 3rd Floor, Cambridge, MA 02139 Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Medical Affairs, Medical Science Liaisons, Patient Advocacy This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel discussion will be moderated by Alissa Brown, Head of Market Access Academy, SANOFI. Location: Zoom Unlocking Your Team's Potential: Managing Performance, Promotions, and Development of Your Team As a manager, you have the ability to empower, align and impact your team members. How you interact with your team directly influences how your team members will feel about the organization, their role, and their performance. Do you want to be recognized and remembered as the best boss ever? Spend time reflecting on how you manage and enable your team and what are the best possible ways to do that by signing up for this webinar. This event will be moderated by Alicja Januszewicz. Location: Zoom WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are a great opportunity to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Join us for our this next event in the WoW Networking series! Thanks to our Sponsor: Foley & Lardner LLP Managing Up: Strategies to Confidently Ask For What You Need Asking our managers for feedback, support or opportunities can feel daunting. Fears of having our requests rejected, undermining our working relationships, or being seen as less capable can have a chilling effect on our willingness to ask for what we need. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right mindset and communication strategies, you can effectively and confidently manage up and advocate for yourself. Location: Agios Pharmaceuticals, 88 Sidney St., Cambridge, MA 02139 Giving & Receiving Feedback: Discover How to Make These Conversations Easier - For Both of You! The goal of this workshop is for participants to understand that giving and receiving feedback is not one-size-fits all. They will reflect on what they need to feel safe/comfortable receiving feedback and they'll learn how to customize their feedback for anyone on their team—including their manager. Location: bluebird bio, 455 Grand Union Blvd., 12th Floor, Somerville, MA 02145 WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are a great opportunity to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. Join us for our this next event in the WoW Networking series! Thanks to our Sponsor: Beam Therapeutics Delegating vs. Micromanaging: Learn How to Let Go and Empower Your Team The two most powerful skills to becoming a great manager are delegating well and empowering your team. Why is it so hard to delegate? What’s stopping you from letting go? Did you know that the most frequent complaint people make about their managers is they’re micromanagers? Are you one? Are you struggling with a boss who is micromanaging you? Wouldn’t you like to change the situation? Participants will:
Emerge knowing how to delegate in a way that is aligned with your working style, so that you can empower and inspire your team to become even more creative and productive.
Location: Zoom
Cost: Members: $5, Non-Members: $15 More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2023-07-11-delegating-vs-micromanaging Get on Board: Inside the Board of Directors If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. The discussion will be moderated by Ann Miller. Panelists include: Susan Graf, Board Chair & Audit Committee Chair, Finch Therapeutics, Minji Kim, President & CEO, Cross Border Partners, LLC, and John Sundy, Chief Medical Officer and Head of R&D, Seismic Therapeutic. Location: Cambridge Consultants, 2 Drydock, Boston, MA Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Clinical Development, Clinical Operations, & Pharmacovigilance This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel will be moderated by Karen Weisinger, Director of Biology at Cambridge Consultants. Panelists included Yasha Dwivedi, Director Supply Chain Management, Alkermes, Alyssa Marino, VP, Head of Clinical Operations, Marengo Therapeutics, Yureeda Qazi, M.D., Director, Clinical Development (Ophthalmology), Dompé US. Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking The WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking series has become one of our most popular! These events are great opportunities to network with other STEM professionals while enjoying drinks and appetizers. We are looking forward to appetizers from our food sponsors Freight Farms and Norfolk Healthy Produce. Also, from 7:00-7:30 PM ET, we are hosting a focus group about future programming. Location: 730 Tavern, 730 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139 -Venue changed due to weather From Being Laid Off to Job Changes: Different Stories of the Job Search Journey When you've been laid off and find yourself with a lot of time on your hands it's easy to start to feel alone in the job searching process. The best thing you can remember is that you're not alone. This is a great time to look at your new free time as a learning opportunity and work to grow yourself. In the final event in this series we'll hear from four panelists who are currently in, or recently completed a job search. These panelists will share about their journey and their process, how they have spun being laid off in interviews, and how they stay(ed) positive throughout the process. Panelists to include: Dawn Kumiega, Job Searching, Caroline Rufo, Senior Manager, Investor Relations at Astria Therapeutics, Inc., Zita Schneider, Job Searching. Location: Zoom
The Pathway for Success for Hispanics & Latinos in Biotech Join WEST to promote and engage talent diversity in the biotech industry. This event hosted by The Janssen Pharmaceuticals Companies of Johnson & Johnson is focused on enhancing the representation of Hispanic and Latino groups in biotech, breaking barriers, and building relationships with the community and peers. There will be a panel discussion and networking with appetizers and drinks. This event will be moderated by Cristina Almansa, Senior Director, Head of Clinical Sciences, Translational Medicine, Immunology Research & Development at The Janssen Pharmaceuticals Companies of Johnson & Johnson. Panelists Include:
Location: Johnson & Johnson, 320 Bent St., Cambridge, MA Laid Off Series: Landing a Job Through Recruiters Eyes Ever wonder what a recruiter sees after you hit the submit button on your application for a job? The hardest part of the job hunt is often the waiting between submitting an application and getting a response. During the wait we all wonder what a recruiter sees, if we're what they're looking for, and if we were able to best convey to them that we very well could be the right candidate for the job. Join us for the second event in this series to hear from recruiters with decades of experience and learn what they're looking for and some tips to help you make a great first impression. Recruiters: Location: Zoom Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Business Development In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel discussion will be moderated by Yelena Wetherill, Director, Alliance Management, Business Development & Licensing at Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR). Panelists to Include:
Location: Zoom Cost: Free More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2023-05-10-career-possibilities-business-development Mental Balance: Navigating Layoffs & Job Changes Are you struggling to cope with the stress and uncertainty of a layoff? It's a tough experience that can leave you feeling lost, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what lies ahead. However, it is possible to navigate through this tough time and emerge stronger and more resilient than before. In this webinar, we'll explore the mental and emotional challenges that come with job loss, and share a mental model that can help you move through these challenges in a healthy and productive way. We'll also discuss the human tendency to seek certainty and avoid uncertainty, and how to embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for growth and learning. Most importantly, we will focus on the state of mind necessary for moving forward and taking action. By cultivating a growth oriented and proactive mindset, you can build resilience and make meaningful progress towards your career goals. Join us for this webinar and gain valuable insights for achieving mental balance during times of change. Whether you're currently facing a job change or simply preparing for the future, we're here to help you thrive and succeed! Location: Zoom Career Possibilities Panel & Speed Networking: Research & Development, Discovery In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This panel will be moderated by Lesley Chan, Senior Director of Process Sciences and Innovations at bluebird bio. Panelists Include:
Location: Zoom Cost: Free More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2023-04-26-career-possibilities-research-development-discovery Marriage is About Love, Divorce is About Money Author Chat Every divorcing person needs an action plan and a comprehensive strategy. Marriage is About Love, Divorce is About Money® by Gabrielle Clemens, is a step-by-step guide through the legal and financial aspects of divorce from an attorney and certified divorce financial advisor. You'll learn:
Cost: WEST Members: $0; Non-Members: $10 More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2023-04-13-marriage-divorce-author-chat WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for appetizers, drinks, and some fun networking with your fellow STEM professionals. This networking event is hosted by Proclinical. Thanks to our Sponsor: Codiak BioSciences Asking For More: Approaching Salary Negotiations with Confidence At work, some of the hardest conversations we have are about our own compensation. Often, it’s much easier for us to advocate for others than to lean into the self-advocacy. This can create and perpetuate numerous problems, including feeling undervalued and resentful, not to mention hurting own financial wellbeing. In this interactive workshop, lead by Corona Pritchard, we will:
Come prepared with your questions and scary “what-ifs” and burning questions! Location: Zoom Work From the Inside Out: Managing Uncertainty, Creating Meaning Author Chat We spend a great deal of time at work, more than we do with our families, sleeping, or in other important parts of our lives. Many of us have invested significant resources and made sacrifices to meet our highest goals. We are living longer and working later in life too. In this interactive webinar, led by Author Tammy Gooler Loeb, we will open up the conversation to identify the strategies to help you stay on track as obstacles and opportunities show up in your careers. We will discuss the importance of maintaining your networks and the practices that strengthen relationships, serving the needs of your organization and your career growth. Location: Zoom Leadership Strategies to Advance Your Career in Science Sandra Glucksmann, Past President & CEO at Cedilla Therapeutics, will share stories of her career challenges and successes. She will discuss how to best apply your scientific and analytical abilities to develop influence and negotiation skills. Sandra will share her learning experiences as she transitioned from bench scientist to manager, and from manager to executive in both small and large company settings. Location: Pfizer, 610 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 Accelerate Your Career Through Personal Branding and Marketing Yourself Do you know your story and are you prepared to share it with passion and purpose? Are you comfortable marketing your talents, accomplishments, and value, both live and virtually? Learn the 3 Ps marketing technique and empower yourself to identify, build, and enhance your personal brand. Lead your journey and own your career. In this session, led by Rita B. Allen, you will learn how to: apply the 3 Ps marketing technique for personal and staff career development; use a proven framework with tools and resources; and gain on-going self-assessment and exploration processes to use well beyond the session. Thanks to our sponsor: Bristol Myers Squibb WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking with Johnson & Johnson Innovation Center Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for appetizers, drinks, and some fun networking with your fellow STEM professionals. This WoW event will feature women leaders from Johnson & Johnson sharing their career journeys and a couple facilitated networking activities. This networking event is hosted by J&J in honor of the 10th year anniversary of Boston Innovation Center and expanded J&J footprint in Boston/Cambridge. Thanks to our Sponsor: Johnson & Johnson Innovation Nurturing Confidence: The Path Through Courage “I wish I had more confidence to share my ideas freely at the workplace”, “I want my colleagues to see me as someone capable and confident”, “I don’t want to take up the next promotion because I don’t feel confident to be in the limelight”, “Everyone is such an expert in their field that I always feel like I know so little”, Do some of these statements sound familiar to you? If yes, you are not alone in this. Despite having stellar achievements and success (in personal and professional life), many people find confidence hard to come by. Confidence is a quality that everyone aspires to, and few exuberate. Often, we assume confidence is something that people just have naturally, or they don’t. That assumption is not true. Sure, some people are naturally more confident than others, just like some people are naturally more athletic, resilient, etc. than others. However, confidence is an ability that can be nurtured and grown, irrespective of your natural/current propensity to it. While there are tons of articles, videos and books on confidence, the process of how to nurture and grow one’s confidence feels vague. In this coaching style workshop, Pallavi Srivastava's goal is to bring more clarity to this process so that you can take clear action towards it. In this hands-on workshop, you will have time to explore and reflect on confidence through the lens of courage and authenticity. You will experience first-hand how you can tap into these aspects to nurture and grow your confidence. You will also have the opportunity to practice and apply what you learn through interactive exercises and group work. Location: Zoom Life-Work Balance? It's a Myth! Let's play Work-Life Jenga and prioritize what is important to you by exploring your values In this hands-on workshop, you will have the chance to reflect on how you are spending your time, to notice what you are making time for, and what is left out. We will provide you time for solo-reflection to consider what you'd like more of in your life--whether it is more time to invest in your personal relationships, professional development, health, or self-care. You will then move into small group discussions, led by professional facilitators, where you can share ideas on how to make your lives less stressful and more meaningful. You will leave with a better sense of the steps you can take tomorrow to design a life that aligns with what is most important to you. Our goal is for you to leave with a renewed sense of energy and excitement about realistic ways you can design a life that is more fulfilling, and less stressful. We will provide you the tools to help you make the decisions that work best for you. The answers are not the same for each of us. We generally don't make the time to ask ourselves these questions. This workshop will be a great way to start your year! Consider it a gift of time for yourself, where you can also support other members of the WEST community, to help them bring more delight into their lives as well. This workshop is inspired by an article written by social justice advocate Stacey Abrams. She reflects on what it takes to fit in all the pieces of our lives without feeling like we'll topple over from the effort of trying to balance everything. Abrams "rejects" the idea of work-life balance. Balance is impossible! Consider how every day something may happen to upset your carefully balanced plan. It might be your child coming down with the flu or an unexpected opportunity to expand your role at work. Abrams believes instead, on discovering what matters most to you, and then creating a plan that aligns with your priorities. Location: Zoom WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for appetizers, drinks, and some fun networking with your fellow STEM professionals. This networking event is hosted by Suffolk University. Thanks to our Sponsor: Suffolk University The Journey Starts Now: Q&A Session with Women in STEM and What You Can Do Starting in High School Join us to hear from women in STEM who are excelling in their careers. From being directors to being professors in bioengineering, these women have done incredible things for science, but they were all young high schoolers at one point in their life. What did they do to get from there to where they are now? That's what they will be talking about in the Q&A-style panel. These women are resilient, bold, courageous, and accomplished. Hearing from them will be a truly informative and exciting experience and who knows - maybe one day you will be in their position, serving as a mentor to high schoolers and being an inspiration to the next generation. The panel discussion will be moderated by Suhanee Mitragotri, Harvard College, Class of 2025. Panelists include:
Location: Zoom 2022 Transforming Limiting Beliefs into Empowering Discomfort By the age of seven, our belief system is formed. As adults, we are often unaware of how these childhood beliefs influence our behaviors and decisions. To reshape beliefs that no longer serve us, limit us, we must act and seek out new experiences and embrace empowering discomfort. By the end of the session, you will understand how to:
Location: Zoom Holiday Cocktail Party & WoW Networking WEST and Cooley invite you to a Holiday Cocktail Party for an evening of networking and festive food and drinks. Please join us to celebrate the holidays, connect with members, exchange ideas, learn about job openings and more. This event is free for members thanks to Cooley’s generous sponsorship. Thanks to our Sponsor: Cooley LLP Career Possibilities & Speed Networking: Lab & Facilities Operations including IT & EHS In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel will be moderated by Jennifer Reilly, WEST Board Member and President & COO at Safety Partners, Inc. Panelists Include: Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences Leadership Strategies to Advance Your Career in Science Sandra Glucksmann, President & CEO at Cedilla Therapeutics, will share stories of her career challenges and successes. She will discuss how to best apply your scientific and analytical abilities to develop influence and negotiation skills. Sandra will share her learning experiences as she transitioned from bench scientist to manager, and from manager to executive in both small and large company settings. She will touch on the following topics:
Location: Pfizer, 1 Portland Street Cambridge, MA 02139 WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for appetizers, drinks, and some fun networking with your fellow STEM professionals. Agios requires guests to be fully vaccinated, or if not, obtain a negative test the day of the event. If not vaccinated, they ask that masks be worn with the exception of while eating or drinking. Thanks to our Sponsor: Agios Pharmaceuticals Critical Conversations on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion In this very interactive session, attendees will look at Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and apply what they learn to work together in a cohesive environment using proven communication and connection strategies. Throughout the session, attendees participate in role-playing using real-life examples to help us recognize our own unconscious bias and how it impacts the organization. These examples will help us consider "How that situation made us feel?", "what you thought about while the situation was happening," and "what did you learn about yourself and others?". We will talk about microaggressions and macroaggressions and their impacts on the work environment. You will gain best practices to remove misconceptions and stereotypes and engage in dialogue that will be the catalyst for change and acceptance in this high-octane social unrest environment. You will receive practical tips that will help you handle situations positively and productively. Learning Points:
Location: Zoom How to Cultivate a Winning Mindset as an Introvert If you identify as an introvert in our society, it is so easy to remain stuck trying to "fit" in a supposedly extroverted world. What if there was a different approach that allows you to design a life that feels more authentic to you? In this workshop, we will:
Location: Zoom Drop- In Networking Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for a great time networking with other local STEM professionals. We hope to see you there! The registration fees will cover the cost of group appetizers for the tables. Location: 730 Tavern, 730 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139 Career Possibilities & Speed Networking In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel will be moderated by Rekha Paleyanda at Takeda. Panelists Include: Thanks to our series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences
Location: Zoom Cost: Free More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-10-18-career-possibilities-legal Overcoming Overwhelm: A 3-Step Model to Bouncing Back With so much going on in our lives and in the world around us, it can be a challenge to know how to respond when everything seems too much. Decades of research on stress and resilience reveal simple approaches that have been repeatedly proven to improve coping, wellbeing and overall life satisfaction. These tactics can help us move from high emotion to thoughtful action more quickly and make space for us to “reflect, reimagine, and emerge stronger.” In this session led by Allessandria Polizzi, we will provide a short primer on what happens when we feel overwhelmed and teach participants our 3-step resiliency model for bouncing back, including 1. The science behind stress reactions As a result, you will have new tools you can turn to quickly no matter what challenges you face. Location: Zoom The Power of Inclusive Conversations Inclusive conversations are one of the most powerful tools individuals and organizations can leverage to create cultures of psychological safety and inclusion. The goal of this interactive program is to equip attendees with the necessary understanding and experience to successfully engage in this kind of dialogue. Using a framework, attendees learn how to assess when inclusive conversations are needed and how to approach them. Participants explore the factors that influence the success or failure of inclusive conversations, including culture, power dynamics and conflict styles. They also observe and critique conversation demonstrations, and they have time to practice their own conversations with real-life scenarios. While this topic can seem daunting, Trish Foster's empathetic, human approach diminishes fear and increases comfort in approaching inclusive conversations. Attendees leave the workshop with 1) a framework for inclusive conversation and 2) the confidence to initiate and receive such conversations to nurture trust, inclusion, and psychological safety. Location: Zoom WoW - WEST on Wednesdays Networking- SOLD OUT Ready to get back to in-person networking? Join us for appetizers, drinks, and some fun networking.
Thanks to Moderna for providing food and drinks. Speaking Up & Be Heard: How to Speak Up at Work Without Fear of Being Judged Have you considered how your fear of being judged for speaking up is negatively impacting your career? The 2019 McKinsey Women in the Workplace report, which surveyed 329 companies & more than 68,000 employees, found that 50% of the surveyed women experienced being interrupted or spoken over, and 38% had others take credit for their ideas. Whether you’re speaking up in a virtual meeting, presenting an idea to your boss or giving a presentation to your team, speaking confidently is the only way to truly be heard & achieve the goals you wish to accomplish in your career. Yet, it can be scary. All eyes are on you and only you. You want to make sure you don’t say the wrong thing or offend anybody but at the same time, you don’t want to sit in silence because you’re afraid to speak up and then later kick yourself for not sharing what’s on your mind. So, as a professional woman in your field, how do you speak up with CONFIDENCE without the fear of being judged by your superiors or your peers? When you join me in my virtual workshop, you will receive methods that I’ve shared in training over 20,000 career professionals in 30 cities internationally, to speak up & be heard so that you can receive the visibility that you deserve. In this virtual workshop, you will learn:
Location: Zoom Making the Most of Your Next Transition Are you ready to make a move? Is there something more you would like to explore? Join author and seasoned business executive Linda Rossetti for an interactive discussion about making the most of your next transition. Linda has spent the last decade researching how adults make personal and professional changes. She will share highlights from her research on the key success factors for making meaningful changes in our lives. She will also lead us through a series of exercises designed to help you clarify your next moves. Don't miss it! Location: Zoom WEST Dynamic Pod Mentoring To help mentees achieve a personal or career goal by using small mentoring groups (pods) to obtain diverse perspectives that will provide an enriching experience for mentees and enable execution on goals through focused actions. This multi-week program will use a rating system during the application process to match Mentees with groups and mentors that will help promote growth toward individual goals. Mentees should have a development goal to tackle and appreciate multi-dimensional feedback and Mentors should have a passion to share their experiences and develop others. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-mentoring-program What Is Your Leadership Style? July 26, 2022, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM ET While many of us intellectually recognize that there are different leadership styles in the workplace, in times of stress or uncertainty, we risk making emotionally-based assumptions about others’ motivations, behaviors and styles that undermine our relationships and productivity. In this interactive session lead by Kim Meninger, we’ll explore the Deloitte Business Chemistry Profiles model to better understand your leadership style as well as the styles of those around you. You will also learn how to best engage with different styles to maximize your relationships and overall business outcomes. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-07-26-leadership-style Career Possibilities Panel: Digital Health, Data Sciences May 18, 2022 6:15-7:45 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This event will be moderated by Julia Curran, Associate Director, shinrAI Center of Excellence for AI/MLr. Panelists include:
Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences Career Growth Spotlight - How a great manager can support your career aspirations There is collective recognition that managers can have an outsized impact on their employees’ daily satisfaction and retention. In fact, it is often said that “People do not leave bad jobs; they leave bad managers.” We have all heard stories about the impact of toxic and/or ineffective bosses. Perhaps less frequently discussed are great bosses. What makes a boss extraordinary? How do talented managers boost their team member’s careers, confidence, and/or opportunities? How can you identify one of these unicorns when you have the opportunity to select a future manager? In the absence of a supportive manager, how can you leverage other relationships to enable your career growth? The panelists will address these questions and more as they reflect on formative experiences in their own careers. The event will be moderated by Laurie Bohn, a leadership development professional, founder of TalentVivo and WEST Advisory Board member. April 13, 2022 6:15-7:45 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. Panelists Include: Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences
Finding Your Voice through Creativity and Adversity In this event, we will tap into our creativity to take a fresh look at the role success and adversity have in helping us step into our authentic selves as people and as professionals. Through which lens do we consider something a success? How do you change your perspective to see your failures as opportunities for learning? This session will allow participants to consider their own experiences as a narrative and to explore their intersectionality as a person, professional, and creative force. Engineering Art: Radioactive, A musical about Marie Curie Participants will get a sneak peek of scenes and songs from the Marie Curie-themed musical Radioactive by Will Reynolds and Eric Price. You will discover the parallels in how artists create musicals about historical figures in science and their practices. The creators of this musical will speak about their research of science in writing the play and how these two worlds have combined to make a musical. These creatives will discuss the challenges of bringing the piece from hypothesis, workshop experimentation to presentation. Rockstar Lunch
March 22, 2022 12:00-1:00 PM EST Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Join Tim Clackson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Theseus Pharmaceuticals, and Jo Viney, Founder, President, and CEO of Seismic Therapeutic, for an engaging conversation. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-03-22-rockstar-lunch
Career Possibilities Panel: Commercial, Medical Affairs, Market Access March 16, 2022 6:15-7:45 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. Panelists include: Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-03-16-career-possibilities-commercial-medical-communication The Writer's Lab - Art and Science: Similarities in Processes Enjoy a unique Broadway experience on women in science to explore the intersection of science and art. This 3-part series is different then our usual WEST events in that we will watch Broadway stars perform and explore the parallels between artistic and scientific processes of creation and innovation. We have an opportunity to explore the challenges women face in their fields through the lens of Broadway performances. True to our mission to inspire, we will hear from compelling keynote speakers during each session. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-03-10-art-science-writer-broadway Rockstar Breakfast Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Join Luba Greenwood, Managing Partner at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Venture Fund and CEO of Kojin Therapeutics and Eleanor Howe, Founder and CEO of Diamond Age Data Science for an engaging conversation. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-03-03-rockstar-breakfast
Career Possibilities Panel: R&D Clinical, Regulatory, Patient Outcomes February 16, 2022 6:15-7:45 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. Panelists include: Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences Rockstar Lunch February 10, 2022 12:00-1:00 PM EST Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Join Laura Sepp-Lorenzino, Chief Scientific Officer at Intellia Therapeutics and Shelia Violette, Co-founder, Chief Scientific Officer, and President of Research Q32 Bio for an engaging conversation. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-02-10-rockstar-lunch Be a Better Ally Regardless of your background, role or level, you can be an ally. In this interactive discussion, you’ll learn how with speaker Kim Meninger. We will:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-02-08-be-a-better-ally Healthcare Investments & Exits: 2021 Year-In-Review January 27, 2022 6:15-7:15 PM EST Join this “Rockstar” event to hear Katherine Andersen, Head of Life Science & Healthcare, and Laura Scott, Head of Southeast and Mid-Atlantic Life Science, present SVB’s 2021 year-in-review around key investment and exit trends for the Healthcare industry. They will also spend some time on providing some guidance around professional opportunities in banking and will leave time for audience Q&A at the end. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2022-01-27-rockstar-healthcare-investments Career Possibilities Panel: R&D Discovery January 19, 2022 6:15-7:45 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. Panelists include: Thanks to our Series Sponsor: Gilead Sciences 2021 Get on Board: Inside the Board of Directors If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including thcombinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. The panel discussion will be moderated by Laurie Pascal, Senior Lecturer & Program Director at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Panelists: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-12-15-board-of-directors-panel Are You the Science Type? A discussion with women in science WEST has put together a program for high school students, college students, and our broader WEST community. We need more people in STEM careers and want to ensure the next generation has an opportunity to connect with and hear from local STEM professionals. During our time together, we will watch parts of short video clips, discuss in breakout rooms, and hear from panelists. Join us to hear from women in science and get good advice from accomplished role models. Panelists include: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-12-09-making-a-difference-in-science Annual Holiday Party Cooley is pleased to invite you to Virtual Bingo hosted by Charlie Hides, star of Ru Paul's Drag Race. Charlie with be hosting three rounds of bingo and there will be prizes. Prepare for a fully interactive live show with songs, jokes, silly dances, and chats along the way. Everyone attending will get a bingo card sent to them digitally to play along with and enjoy the fast-paced game. Register soon as space is limited. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-12-08-holiday-party-virtual-bingoUnlocking the Mystery of Drug Development & Drug Pricing Are you interested in getting a high level overview of the therapeutic drug/device development process? Do you want to learn more about the strategic and data considerations and regulatory oversight process associated with drug/device approvals? Do you want to understand how companies secure reimbursement and enable access to medicines? Join us on National STEM/STEAM Day for this informative seminar and discussion as we learn from experienced panelists about how new prescription drugs are discovered, tested, approved, and sold. This panel discussion will be moderated by Meena Subramanyam, Vice President and Global Program Leader in Takeda Oncology. Panelists include: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-09-30-leadership-secret-weapon Rockstar Breakfast Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Join Meredith Fisher and Gregory Verdine for an engaging conversation. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-10-13-hybrid-team-workshop
Navigating a Hybrid Team Dynamic For over a year, employees have been working - remotely, in person, or through a combination of the two - the hybrid team. Some companies are opening their physical doors for more employees to return to face-to-face work, while other organizations are embracing the hybrid model which allows for a mix between in person and virtual collaboration across teams. How does one navigate this dynamic successfully? In this workshop, Laurie Bohn will discuss
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-10-13-hybrid-team-workshop
How to be Inclusive when Differences are Less Visible Diversity and inclusion strengthen organizations by bringing a variety of perspectives that reflect individual strengths to collectively generate better ideas. Join WEST and Ipsen for a panel discussion on advancing inclusion when differences are less visible. Panelists will share insights about various less visible dimensions including and not limited to physical, sensory and chronic health conditions, mental health, thinking styles, values, gender identity, and more. The discussion will deepen your interest in and raise awareness of the less-visible or invisible (but no less widespread) aspects of diversity. The panelists will share experiences and suggestions for what organizations can do to be inclusive of these kinds of differences including ensuring psychological safety and an inclusive company culture. Panelists include: Leadership Secret Weapon: Put Your Oxygen Mask on First As leaders and business professionals, you are committed to leading your organizations and teams. Despite all the stress and anxiety you may be experiencing in your job and your industry, your team never sees it. You juggle many responsibilities with precision and composure. Along the way you may be forgetting about the one person without whom, you can’t succeed – yourself. Join Mari Ryan as participants share what works for them and where they experience challenges of prioritizing self-care. Participants will learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-09-30-leadership-secret-weapon
Speak Up & Be Heard: How to Speak Up at Work Without Fear of Being Judged
When you join Mary Cheyne in the virtual workshop, you will receive methods that I’ve shared in training over 20,000 career professionals in 30 cities internationally, to speak up & be heard so that you can receive the visibility that you deserve. In this virtual workshop, you will learn: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-09-28-speak-up-be-heard Prioritizing Planning Helps Families Manage Financial Risks of Alzheimer's and Dementia Caring for someone with cognitive decline is a long, stressful, emotional journey. There are also significant—and unexpected—financial impacts on caregivers. Join Gabrielle Clemens and Lisa M Austin to explore how cognitive decline can have devastating impacts not just on those diagnosed with the disease, but on their caregivers as well. We’ll provide actionable ideas for helping you prepare the expected on your journey forward. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-09-21-financial-planning-caregivers
WEST Dynamic Pod Mentoring
To help mentees achieve a personal or career goal by using small mentoring groups (pods) to obtain diverse perspectives that will provide an enriching experience for mentees and enable execution on goals through focused actions. During the application process, mentees will rate their interest in these key topics (career progression, leadership, personal growth, work-life consideration) and that will be use for matching their core pod. Mentees will also have the opportunity to explore the other topics offered and/or mentors for their flex pod time each session. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-fall-mentoring-program How to Make Time for YOUR Goals, Even if You’re Drowning in To-do’s Time is the most important resource we have... but many people find themselves strapped for it. You've tried it all before - calendar blocking, to do lists, trello and every other system under the sun to break out of the no time cycle. And none of them worked. You end up overwhelmed and exhausted with nothing left to give to our own goals. It doesn’t have to be that way. Come and learn some simple solutions from Jamie Martin so you can find the time and the energy to go after YOUR goals. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-08-19-workshop-time-goals
Easing Anxiety in the New Work Environment with Self-Care As more people are transitioning back to the office, join us to explore your complex feelings and discuss tips for navigating the new work environment. During the event, we will watch short video clips and share our experiences in breakout rooms. We will also learn some self-care tips to help us manage potential stress and anxiety that lie ahead. Kim Meninger will facilitate the discussion. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-08-10-reemergence-self-care-discussion
Conquer Imposter Syndrome to Advance Your Career
If so, you likely struggle with Impostor Syndrome, a term for the feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy many professionals face, particularly as we advance our careers. In this session, you'll learn common triggers of Impostor Syndrome, including feeling different from the dominant culture around you. This is why Impostor Syndrome is so pervasive among women in traditionally male-dominated fields. You’ll also learn strategies to build your confidence and manage these disruptive feelings so that you can effectively achieve your professional goals. Building Financial Resilience: Lessons from Disruption Resiliency is the ability to recover quickly and swiftly in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, or stress. The COVID-19 pandemic tested that ability for all of us, and demonstrated how uncertain the future can truly be. As we look back on 2020, what lessons can disruption to our finances teach us? Financial resilience is a critical skill to develop for today and the future. Join Melissa Nuñez as she helps you build financial resiliency skills to take control of your financial picture and advance your success. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-06-17-financial-resilience
Spring Networking Event June 10, 2021 5:30-7:00 PM EST Are you feeling cooped up by working from home every day, and longing for some social interaction? Looking to keep building your community and resilience to make it into the post-covid world? Then come join us for our Spring Networking Event. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. We'll be gathering on a new service called Gather.town, a virtual space where we can network and bump into each other like in the pre-pandemic world. There will be group breakout sessions by field, by hobby, and an ability to share resources that help build your network and continue to grow your career. Join us, both during the gathering and afterwards, in sharing ways we can stay connected, support each other, and stay focused on the things we can control in our work and in our lives. The evening before the event you will be given access to the Gather.town room, so you can test your A/V, make an avatar, and be ready to network on June 10th. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-06-10-networking-event In It Together - Sharing impactful stories and supporting each other Join us for a fun and interactive session of sharing career journey experiences. This session will use an informal game-show style format. No preparation or prior experience needed! Participants will have an opportunity to share short anecdotes relating to a variety of topics including overcoming challenges, celebrating proud moments, and balancing work and life. This will be followed by optional breakout rooms to encourage further conversation and networking in small groups. Attendance is limited to 15 – sign up now, you won’t want to miss it! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-06-08-in-it-together-stories The Anxious Go-Getter: Keep The Achievement, Lose The Anxiety Imagine a life where you remain as successful, productive, and appreciated, without that ever-exhausting weight of anxiety accompanying you behind the scenes every step of the way. To those with high functioning anxiety, these ideas may seem like only distant dreams. In this talk, Courtney, an anxious go-getter herself, will show you how all of this is possible for YOU. She will walk you through an effective, step-by-step process of cultivating a new, more constructive relationship with anxiety… a relationship built upon acceptance and compassion, rather than fear and perfectionism. Join us to learn to achieve the same level of success in your life, with a fraction of the anxiety! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-06-03-mindset-anxiety-workshop Building Your Personal Advisory Board Are you looking to take on a new leadership role or make a career transition? Are you ready to advance your career trajectory with clarity, confidence and a support system dedicated to helping you succeed? In order to achieve this next level of success you want to ensure that you have mentors and coaches on your team to guide, motivate and challenge you. As our society continues to become increasingly global, diverse and competitive you simply cannot maximize your full potential without a team of advisors. Having a personal board of directors that you trust provides you with a core group of people who will validate your greatness and push you beyond your limits. During this session led by Stephanie Lajoie-Lubin, we will learn about the 7 people you need on your advisory board; how to identify them and how to leverage them. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-05-18-personal-advisory-board Communicating for Interpersonal Effectiveness Focusing time on personal development to become more self-aware can offer benefits that help individuals and teams become more effective, at work and in broader contexts. Working to uncover aspects of yourself that you may not be fully aware of can support your development journey, and can have positive impacts on those around you. Through this 90 minute interactive workshop led by Laurie Bohn, you will experience the impact that understanding your own preferences and style can have on you as an individual, and on others, as you learn how to adapt your style to make deeper connections. In this workshop you will:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-05-12-communication-connection Career Possibilities: Business Development, Lawyers - Patent, Contract In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the sixth in our new panel series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in Business Development, Contracts, and Patent law. This panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This panel discussion will be moderated by Nicole Daley, Counsel, Life Sciences Practice at Goodwin. Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-05-05-career-possibilities-business-development Impact (Sustainable) Investing More and more individuals are seeking the peace of mind associated with having an investment portfolio aligned with their values. This discussion will explore how investing with an impact lens, i.e. considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, enables everyone to spot companies with a strong capacity for long term value creation. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-04-29-impact-investing Career Possibilities: Medical Affairs - Communications, Publications, Medical Science Liaison
April 14, 2021 4:00-5:30 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the fifth in our new panel series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in Medical Affairs and Scientific CommunicationsThe panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This panel discussion will be moderated by Leah Cole, Director Immunology at Sanofi Pasteur. Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-04-14-career-possibilities-medical-affairs Relaunching careers in scientific research and biomedical engineering - 5 years later, where are they now? April 7, 2021 6:00 - 7:00 PM EST Five years ago we held a panel on launching or relaunching scientific research careers after a career break, working in an unrelated field, or after a delayed start. On April 7th, we bring back the same panel to talk about where they are now. This promises to be an excellent discussion about career progression, with each participant giving us a retrospective view of their career path choices, including comments on "what I wish I knew."
Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-04-07-career-relaunching Picture a Scientist - Screening and Discussion PICTURE A SCIENTIST is a feature-length documentary film chronicling the groundswell of researchers who are writing a new chapter for women scientists. A biologist, a chemist, and a geologist lead viewers on a journey deep into their own experiences in the sciences, overcoming brutal harassment, institutional discrimination, and years of subtle slights to revolutionize the culture of science. From cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, we also encounter scientific luminaries who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable, and open to all. Your registration includes 72 hour screening access via a personalized link. Our screening period will be 3/26-3/28. We will then have facilitated discussions on 3/29 at 6pm and 4/6 at 12pm. Please register below for the 4/6 discussion. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-04-06-picture-a-scientist
Picture a Scientist - Screening and Discussion PICTURE A SCIENTIST is a feature-length documentary film chronicling the groundswell of researchers who are writing a new chapter for women scientists. A biologist, a chemist, and a geologist lead viewers on a journey deep into their own experiences in the sciences, overcoming brutal harassment, institutional discrimination, and years of subtle slights to revolutionize the culture of science. From cramped laboratories to spectacular field stations, we also encounter scientific luminaries who provide new perspectives on how to make science itself more diverse, equitable, and open to all. Your registration includes 72 hour screening access via a personalized link. Our screening period will be 3/26-3/28. We will then have facilitated discussions on 3/29 at 6pm and 4/6 at 12pm. Please register below for the 3/29 discussion and here for the 4/6 discussion. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-03-29-picture-a-scientist Career Possibilities: Portfolio Strategy, Project Management, and Scientific Operations In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the fourth in our new panel series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in Portfolio/Project Management, and Scientific Operations. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-03-24-career-possibilities-portfolio-strategy Lost in Translation: 3 Secrets to Successfully Communicate in Times of Chaos and Uncertainty Communication is the key to success in life, work, and relationships… especially in uncertain times, it will decide whether we win or fail to navigate a crisis. And yet, often enough we face situations where our message turns into error, misunderstanding, or frustration, simply because it was misinterpreted or maybe poorly delivered. And we’re left off with a feeling of being lost in translation. But it doesn’t have to be that way! Join us as we learn from Kristina Albert, Executive Coach & International Leadership Advisor, about simple strategies for powerful conversations and how to become a successful and effective communicator. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-03-10-communication-webinar Career Possibilities: Clinical, Regulatory, and Development March 3, 2021 4:00-5:30 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the third in our new panel series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in Clinical, Regulatory, and Development. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. This panel discussion will be moderated by Jackie Schumacher, Regulatory, and Quality Lead at Rallybio. Panelists include:
More information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-03-03-career-possibilities-clinical-regulatory-development Surviving and thriving through career transitions: It's not the end of the world
February 22, 2021 6:00 - 7:35 PM EST Are you facing a career transition or considering your next career move? Are you in a role that is no longer a good fit for you? Are you feeling stagnant in a role with no clear path for growth, but afraid to take the leap? Are you challenged by how best to present yourself in virtual interviews? Or, have you just been laid off, and worried about how to begin a new job hunt in the current remote work environment? You are not alone. All of us, at some point in our careers, have faced and will face job and even career changes. Sometimes these changes are voluntary and opportunistic transitions; at other times these changes may be forced upon you unexpectedly. Each of these changes should be viewed as integral to your career journey. The challenge is how to make sense of these changes and to view them in the larger context of growth and personal development. In this 90-minute Zoom workshop, you will hear stories of women who have successfully navigated through major transitions in their careers. You will have the opportunity to ask questions of these women to help you through your own transition. You will also have the chance—in breakout rooms—to speak with representatives of companies who are hiring. If you are not looking for a job, you can move to breakout rooms where you can discuss other transition-related topics. If your team is hiring, this is the event for you too. You will be able to meet with members of the WEST community who are looking for new career opportunities. More information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-02-22-career-transitions-workshop Organizational Change to Achieve Equity In this workshop, Sheera Bornstein of YW Boston will guide participants in identifying culture and organizational change necessary to achieving equity in the workplace. Participants will become familiar with key domains and best practices for organizational change. Then, they will identify and begin exploring opportunities to bring learnings back to their organizations. Participants will review research and studies exploring the interaction between individual identities, power, and privilege in the workplace. Interpersonal, institutional, ideological, and ideological dimensions will be explored. More information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-02-18-change-achieve-equity Career Possibilities: Discovery and Research In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the second in our new panel series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in Discovery and Research. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. The panel discussion will be moderated by Elissa Hobert, the Senior Scientist at Flagship Pioneering. Panelists include:
WEST Dynamic Pod Mentoring Feb-May 2021 In the spring of 2021, WEST will launch a non-traditional, dynamic pod mentoring program. In this program, mentees achieve a personal or career goal by using novel small mentoring groups (pods) to obtain diverse perspectives that will provide an enriching experience for mentees and enable the execution of goals through focused actions. Pods consist of 1 mentor and 1-3 mentees who will rotate to 2 different breakout rooms to discuss long-term goals and current challenges, and together develop actionable strategies for addressing both through small group (or pod) discussions. Each mentee participates in 2 pods per meeting, maximizing opportunities to receive input from several different mentors and peer mentees. The 2021 spring program will consist of a total of six 2-hour meetings. Rotating pod structure offers a unique opportunity to discuss two topics (the same or different) and participate in a large-group facilitated networking during each 2-hour meeting. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-mentoring-program Everyone Communicates, Few Connect: Communicating for Impact and Results One of the biggest problems faced by professionals, even though they are great at what they do and have great ideas, is the inability to get the attention of customers, clients, and colleagues due to not being able to communicate effectively. But the problem is not really a communication problem, it’s a connection problem. Everyone communicates, but few connect. If you can connect with others: one-on-one, in groups, and with an audience – your sense of community improves your ability to create teamwork increases, and your influence skyrockets. People who connect with others have better relationships, experience less conflict, and get more things done than those who cannot connect. Leaders who have learned the art of connection are able to communicate their ideas persuasively, establishing buy-in, and attract followers. In this webinar, Kemi Sorinmade will guide you on how to succeed as a professional, manager, or business leader, through the art of connection. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-01-25-communication-impact-webinar
Career Possibilities: New Commercial Strategy, Product Planning, and Marketing January 20, 2021 4:00-5:30 PM EST In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. This panel series is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. This panel discussion is the first in our new series called "Career Possibilities". We will look at careers in commercial strategy, product planning, and marketing. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-01-20-career-possibilities-commercial-strategy-marketing
Demonstrating Business Impact
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2021-01-12-Demonstrating-Business-Impact 2020
Creating Your Vision Statement for the Year Ahead More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-12-15-creating-vision-statement
Dynamic Deal Structures for Ever-Changing Environments
December 10, 2020 5:30 - 7:30 PM EST Join us on Thursday, December 10th to learn more about navigating pandemic obstacles and common dealmaking challenges using creative deal structures from a panel of female leaders in the Life Sciences. Hear from experts with vast experiences across capital fundraising, venture investment, M&A, licensing agreements, research collaborations, and academic partnerships while networking with other women in the Biotech and Pharma industry. This virtual event, hosted by The Deal Mak(her)s, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, and Women in the Enterprise of Science and Technology (WEST), will consist of a panel discussion followed by breakout groups with each of the panelists and festive networking activity.Panelists include:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-12-10-dynamic-deal-structures
Courageous Conversations
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-12-09-courageous-conversations
Annual Holiday Party
December 4, 2020 4:00 - 5:15 PM EST Cooley is pleased to invite you to an interactive virtual magic show presented by Shimshi, resident illusionist for the Wynn Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 15+ million people have witnessed Shimshi's magic when he appeared on NBC’s hit show “America’s Got Talent.” Shimshi has also appeared on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” “Master of Illusions” and “Wizard Wars” on Syfy. This is a family-friendly event and can be enjoyed by your entire family. Please join us to celebrate the holidays, watch a magic show and then connect with WEST community members for networking. This event is free for members thanks to Cooley’s generous sponsorship.
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-12-04-networking-magic-holiday-party Self and Collective Care for People of Color in a Majority White Workplace How to Captivate Your Virtual Audience
December 1, 2020, 12:05 - 12:55 PM EST This is a mini-master class with extremely practical tools, insights, and tips you can start using immediately to be more effective at presenting online using tools like Zoom, GoToMeeting, Webex, and Skype. Now that more and more of us are moving to online communications, being more effective at using this medium is a must! This webinar is useful to anyone who presents 1:1 or 1:Many online, especially people who want to use a webcam more effectively. Guided by Nathan Gold, in this webinar, you will learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-12-01-captivate-your-virtual-audience Empathy Works! Empathy is an important relationship skill, no matter what the circumstances. In crisis situations, such as living through a pandemic, it becomes even more critical. Within the current COVID-19 context, people are experiencing lots of emotions related to the uncertainty and loss of control in so many aspects of their lives. Empathy works to help people manage the stressors of this moment. Beyond the pandemic context, empathic listening improves your ability to tune into others and build relationships. And it is through relationships that everything happens. Empathy is the pathway to connection and influence. In this webinar conducted by Carol Salloway, you will learn:
EmPower Hour: Micro-Aggressions 101 November 10, 2020 12:00 - 1:00 PM EST Micro-aggressions are common in the workplace, especially for people of color, women, and LGBTQ+ people. They often decrease productivity and can create a toxic workplace environment. During this hour, we join Darla DeGrace to watch a TED Talk on micro-aggressions together and then participants will unpack these assaults on marginalized communities, identify ways to avoid being the offender, and share tips on being an effective and active bystander.Author Chat - Reinvesting in Your Rhetoric with Jill Slye
November 5, 2020, 4:00 - 5:00 PM EST Reinvesting in Your Rhetoric is your guide to becoming confident, communicating clearly, and delivering the best speech of your career. By defining and understanding your communication baseline, the OCD Presentation MethodTM will allow you to become a better communicator and speaker, all while establishing a meaningful connection with your audience. Its memorable three-part application is designed to help you organize your message, develop audience-centered content, and deliver your message through your natural strengths and authentic delivery style. Author Jill Slye has both utilized and coached others through the OCD Presentation MethodTM and relishes in the success of her clients and students. She is dedicated to her vision of changing the world one speech at a time.More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-11-05-author-chat-jill-slye Coaching Circles - SOLD OUT Coaching circles adapt the principles and methods of individual coaching and apply them to small, intentional groups. They set the stage for peer to peer coaching facilitated by trained and qualified professional coaches offering women a supportive and motivating environment to connect through meaningful conversations. Participants develop a set of peer coaching skills in addition to benefiting from professional coaching, and are often preferred by people who learn well in small groups. Join us for three 30 minute sessions, to establish new relationships, enhance leadership skills and talents, and develop in an area that is a current challenge. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-10-22-peer-coaching-groups Building Trust in Your Team There are so many conversations we can have about trust. How can teams increase effectiveness through building trust? What skills are needed to build trust? What about virtual teams? During this session with Laurie Bohn, you will engage in an interactive, virtual dialogue about building trust within your team and across your network. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-10-14-team-trust-webinar Book Club - The Likeability Trap WEST is offering a book club series where you can pick and choose the books/sessions you want to join. We will have a facilitator for each discussion who will have read the book, so even if you don't finish the whole book you should still attend and enjoy the conversation. The book we will be discussing on 10/7 is The Likeability Trap: How to Break Free and Succeed as You Are by Alicia Menendez. The discussion will be facilitated by Aliyah Weinstein, Marketing and Communications Manager, Addgene. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-10-07-book-club-likeability-trap Making better decisions: Pre-mortem analysis and other cognitive tools for better outcomes in life, love, and work Rationality is bounded by previous experiences and numerous mental short-cuts wired on us by biology. To escape its limitations, we can purposely use a series of tools developed by cognitive scientists to help people make better decisions. Dr. Stammberger will be sharing some of the tools that have helped her clients achieve better outcomes and offer the participants on this webinar a set of steps to follow to implement the tools that lead better decision-making. She will share examples of faulty decision-making and how these tools help. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-10-06-better-decisions Gender Parity Panel Discussion On September 30, 2020, the community of Women in the Enterprise of Science & Technology (WEST) will be featuring those who have championed the advancement of women throughout Massachusetts. We will also reflect on ways we can challenge ourselves to expand and build on these accomplishments. The panel will include leaders from the industry and academic sectors, who have advocated for gender parity in science and technology.
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-09-30-gender-parity-panel Women and Wealth: Setting Your Course to a Strong Financial Future September 24, 2020, 6:00 - 7:00 PM EDT Women are a powerful economic force, controlling nearly 40%--or $11.2 trillion—of all investable assets in the U.S. as primary decision-makers. They also represent almost half of the entire U.S. professional workforce. However, women face unique financial challenges and the many roles they play—business owner, scientist, technologist, mother, sister—influence the many financial obligations they have for themselves and their families. But true wealth is about more than just a woman’s money. It’s about a woman’s life and the things she values most as well as the relationships, interests and goals that bring her joy. Putting all these elements at the heart of a woman’s long-term wealth management strategy helps ensure that she will achieve the financial future that she envisions. Please join Alicia Andre & Lindsay Pazdan for an informative seminar designed to help you identify and prioritize your objectives, and then begin to build a personalized plan that helps maximize your probability of achieving the goals you have for yourself and your loved ones, however life unfolds. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-09-24-women-wealth-financial WEST's 20th Anniversary/12th Annual Awards Celebration On September 23, 2020, the community of Women in the Enterprise of Science & Technology (WEST) will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the founding of WEST. The event will honor those whose vision has helped WEST advance its mission to serve the community and make a difference by supporting the advancement of the careers of women. The event will have networking, a fireside chat with Sandra Glucksmann, and our 12th annual awards.WEST is devoted to supporting women at all stages of their careers by offering the tools, insights, and networking connections to promote their career advancement and build leadership skills. We would be honored to have your support in helping us celebrate the achievements of women in the Cambridge and greater Boston ecosystem! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-09-23-20th-anniversary-awards-networking Walking the Tightrope: Mastering the Balance between Likability and Respect August 12, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM EDT As women in traditional workplaces, we are often confronted with a double bind – show up as likable and be seen as less competent or worthy of leadership, or show up as competent and risk being seen as less likable. This often leaves us feeling as though we have a very fine line, or tightrope, to walk. In this session, presented by Kim Meninger, you’ll learn strategies to challenge the double bind and develop your own authentic leadership style.More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-08-12-leadership-respect-webinar Building Meaningful Relationships for Your Career August 4, 2020, 6:00 - 7:00 PM EDT Did you ever ask yourself:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-08-04-career-network-webinar
Mindset Mastery: How to Gain Clarity and Create the Career You Want
July 28, 2020 12:00 - 1:00 PM EDT According to the work of Napoleon Hill, we all possess faculties that the most successful leaders and entrepreneurs throughout history have used to create their results. When you apply this principle to gain clarity on your personal vision and apply them to your life, you will find new ways to determine the best path forward for your career, your challenges become smaller, you will have more drive and energy to achieve your goals with greater impact. This will enable you to get unstuck, or quickly pivot to a new direction while building upon the foundation you already have. Guided by Ngan Nguyen, in this session, you will have an opportunity to define and design the results you would love to create – and learn proven tools & strategies that will enable you to move forward quickly. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-28-career-mindset-webinar Annual Networking Night July 22, 2020 6:00 - 7:30 PM EDT WEST’s Annual Networking Night is a great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. We will also announce our 2020-2021 annual theme. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-22-networking-night How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables and time tables. At home some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. In this session, guided by Amy Rebecca Gay, we’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-21-negotiate-advocate-webinar Building Relationships and Your Influence to Thrive in Your Organization July 16, 2020 4:00 - 5:30 PM EDT How do you get the support, engagement, and commitment you need from others? This is a constant challenge, particularly in pressure-driven environments where resources are limited and project schedules are tight. What you need is the ability to effectively influence without authority. This requires critical skills and strategies to engage cross-functional colleagues, stakeholders, and even external resources. In this seminar conducted by Kim Meninger, you will learn how to expand your influence and more confidently achieve your goals with an emphasis on:
More information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-16-influence-webinar How to be Unafraid to Shine in Your Spotlight July 15, 2020, 12:00 - 1:15 PM EDT Have you ever been plagued with the voice “Who do you think you are?” when you’ve been presented with huge opportunities? There is a scientific reason why you can sometimes feel like a fraud (Impostor Syndrome) despite having designer diplomas and big accomplishments – you have parts of you that are unconsciously afraid of your greatness. In order to overcome Impostor Syndrome, you need to befriend your fears so that they can work with you – instead of against you – and transform into positive allies on your “inner team” to help you unleash true greatness and cross the finish line of your ambitious goals. During this interactive workshop led by Emily W. Liu, using one of the deepest evidence-based tools of accelerated self-awareness, personal growth and lasting transformation – Internal Family Systems – you will:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-15-impostor-syndrome-webinar Rockstar Breakfast and Networking July 14, 2020, 8:00 - 9:00 AM EDT Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Michal Preminger, Head, Johnson & Johnson Innovation Boston and Sandra Glucksmann, President and CEO, Cedilla Therapeutics. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-07-14-networking-breakfast Learning the Basics of Creating Your Portfolio June 30, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM EDT Investing can be complicated and overwhelming. Understanding the fundamentals of investing can help you make sense of the risks and opportunities associated with investing so you can make more informed – and more confident – decisions about your portfolio. In this informative seminar, presented by Alicia Andre and Lindsay Pazdan, we will explore:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-30-investing-financial-portfolio Securing Public Speaking Opportunities June 23, 2020, 4:00 - 5:00 PM EDT What does it take to become a thought leader? To be seen as the expert or the authority in your field? What will it take to get that next promotion? Or a new job? Or a board seat? Often, nothing more than the willingness to speak up and share your thoughts and experiences in public. Employers have always valued the employee who speaks well. Public speaking is, and always will be, an important skill, and well worth developing. Founders, company owners and consultants know it is important to get onstage in order to promote their products and services. This presentation led by Bobbie Carlton focuses on:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-23-public-speaking-webinar Using Self-Promotion Strategies to Raise Your Visibility, Increase Your Influence and Advance Your Career June 22, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM EDT
Many women are reluctant to actively promote their value because it feels self-serving or inauthentic. Rather than promote themselves, they prefer to believe that their work will speak for itself. Unfortunately, without the confidence and commitment to share your value with others, you may lose out on important opportunities to raise your visibility, make a bigger impact and advance within your organization. In this webinar, conducted by Kim Meninger, you’ll learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-22-self-promotion-webinar
Presentation Skills for Brainiacs June 17, 2020, 1:00 - 2:30 PM It can be tough for STEM professionals to create easy-to-understand presentations that inspire people to take action. If you’re having difficulty communicating your complex subject matter and connecting with your audience, this workshop is for you. The Presentation Skills for Brainiacs workshop was developed to help you improve the way you create and deliver presentations. Not only will more people understand what you’re talking about, they’ll know what you want them to do with that information. You’ll learn the 6 Tips for Great Presentations, discover the Analyze and Synthesize method for redesigning slides, and see everything come together with Slide Makeovers! Even if you have no design or marketing background, you will leave this workshop with skills you can use to become a better presenter. This interactive workshop led by Laura Foley will make you rethink what a presentation can be! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-17-presentation-skills-webinar Cultivating Your Network for Success Panel Discussion Your networks, both internal and external, formal and informal, underpin a successful career strategy. Much as we might not like to admit “it’s not what you know, but who you know”, the truth is everyone needs a strong and diverse network to broaden perspectives and overcome fears. Networking is not only about the mutual exchange of ideas and experience, but also an opportunity to elevate your presence and showcase your talent. How do you create those important relationships that will serve your career in the short and long term? Come and learn together with your peers in an interactive and engaging discussion with our experienced panel. Explore your network beyond networking. Enjoy the small group discussions. Discover the different ways you can build your network and learn tips for your next steps. Panelists include: - Katherine Andersen, Head of U.S. Life Science & Healthcare Relationship Banking, Silicon Valley Bank More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-16-virtual-gathering-panel-network
Fearlessness as a Daily Practice Relying on willpower alone to move forward in a fear-driven state is exhausting. While "feel the fear and do it anyway" is an oft-quoted mantra, anyone who's done this in practice finds that it takes quite a lot of energy to sustain. What if instead of "pushing" and "fighting" you were able to approach the challenges of business and life with ease? The practice of fearlessness allows you to instead use that energy to create forward action. Together, we will examine the role of fear in your life and explore the practices that will allow you to move toward being truly fearless. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-06-04-fearlessness-webinar Bypass Your Inner Critic in Public Speaking: How to speak up without feeling like an imposter May 28, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM Despite popular belief, people’s top fear is NOT public speaking. That is a myth. For many people, especially women, the top fear is public JUDGMENT. As a woman leader or emerging leader, how do you OWN what you’re saying without feeling like a fraud? Whether you’re speaking up in an online virtual conference, a board meeting or giving a presentation, you need to be able to speak with confidence to influence your listeners. Key Takeaways from this virtual workshop led by Mary Cheyne:
More information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-28-public-speaking-webinar How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables and time tables. At home some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. We’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. This virtual event will be led by Amy Rebecca Gay. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-20-negotiate-advocate-workshop Virtual Author Fireside Chat with Best-Selling Author Kimberly Napier Drawing on her experience as a certified life coach who has helped hundreds of women achieve personal and professional success. Kimberly found her path, and calling, as a life coach after a tragic wake-up call that propelled her to design a new life for herself and her girls. Kimberly Napier invites you to discover what you truly want from life now in Know What You Want Next: Break Free of the ‘I Don’t Know’ Trap and Love Your Life Again. In our time together, Kimberly will share her step-by-step proprietary process to help you get grounded and create a life and work you love. Her DAREchangeTM Process will help you: - Get clear on what you want - Figure out your life’s true purpose - Identify the roadblocks that prevent you from moving forward - Make choices that take your life in the right direction - Love your work and life again For those joining, you will receive a free online copy of the book. You can check out her book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YN8ZLXC and learn more about Kimberly and her work at: https://kimberlynapier.com. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-15-author-webinar Virtual Gathering & COVID-19 Panel Discussion May 13, 2020, 4:00 - 5:30 PM
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-13-virtual-gathering-panel-covid A Clash of Personalities: Improve Communication and Leadership by Understanding Personality Styles This fun, engaging and enlightening webinar uncovers the reasons why we struggle to communicate effectively with others due to different personality styles and perspectives. Using the DISC (Dominance, Influencing, Steady, Compliance) framework, we will dive into different personality styles and their characteristics and discuss ways we can communicate more effectively and work better together to achieve lasting results. Each participant will come away enlightened and armed with tools to improve their communication and increase their influence with others. After this session led by Kemi Sorinmade you will:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-07-webinar-personality-styles Parenting Power Hour May 6, 2020, 8:00 - 9:00 AM Calling all working parents! We know that managing a career and being a parent isn't easy! Are there days you wonder how other working parents seem to get it all done? Are you looking to expand your parenting toolbox and try new strategies for making life easier? Come join us for WEST's first Parenting Power Hour. Parenting Power Hours are fun, interactive forums that allow you to share ideas and receive take-a-ways that you can implement to help with a variety of work and family life challenges. You’ll engage in short, topic-based conversations that are designed to help you make connections with other parents, explore parenting questions, and gain tips and tricks to help you navigate the ins and outs of being a working parent. Hosted by working parent experts from Soutiens, this dynamic event will give you a variety of new ideas, hacks, and tips to try out! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-05-06-parenting-power-hour How to Make Your Ideas Irresistible Webinar - SOLD OUT At the heart of communications lies one seemingly elusive goal: how can we actually get people to love our ideas as much as we do? Thankfully, there’s a surprisingly simple answer, and it lies in how we come up with our ideas in the first place. Tamsen Webster spent 20 years making messages to move minds and markets and four years turning ideas into action as the Executive Producer of one of the largest TEDx events in the world. During this interactive session the audience will learn:
Building Success with Optimism, Resilience, and Grit Webinar - SOLD OUT April 27, 2020, 6:00 - 7:30 PM This interactive workshop led by Sarah Scala focuses on the next level of leadership and people development - keeping one's self strong in mind through optimism, resilience, and grit. Through group and partner discussions, we will explore ways to strengthen or teach others optimism, resilience, and grit. You will learn how to strengthen and develop Optimism. We will also explore ways to build Resilience as a competency to overcome change and challenges. The workshop will end with ways to strengthen GRIT as a competency that differentiates exceptional performers from good performers, which impacts business results. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-04-27-optimism-resilience-grit-workshop Fight COVID-19 with WEST - A Fundraiser benefiting Life Sciences Cares COVID-19 Response Fund April 22, 2020, 6:00 - 7:30 PM As COVID-19 continues to spread in Massachusetts and the Country, we are reminded of how interconnected we are. These are challenging times for us all, and WEST hopes to play a small role to help those in need! WEST is pleased to organize a special virtual panel discussion with the WEST Board and Advisory Board members. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the Life Sciences Cares COVID-19 Response Fund providing flexible grants to organizations working to meet the emerging and shifting needs caused by this unprecedented outbreak. Panelists will share their career paths, highlighting the challenges they faced along the way. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice about your career journey. We'll also set aside time for you to network in small breakout rooms of 4-5 people. Thank you for being part of the WEST community. Without you, this is not possible. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-04-22-virtual-covid19-fundraiser 3 Lifestyle Habits that are Wrecking Your Sleep (So You Can Start Doing Things Differently) Getting 4-6 hours of sleep at night is often celebrated in our culture, but more people are starting to wake up to the professional benefits of refreshing, high-quality sleep. Not only does sleep deprivation negatively impact our short-term performance (e.g. focus, decision-making, etc.), it also has severe ramifications for our long-term health (e.g. heart disease, obesity, anxiety & depression). If you’re a professional looking to get the next promotion, help shatter the glass ceiling, or otherwise kick ass at work (while keeping things at home running smoothly), refreshing sleep is a REQUIREMENT for your success and good health. At least 1 in 3 adults struggle with sleep challenges, and at least half are women. We're women who read articles and blogs, listen to podcasts, buy weighted blankets, and download sleep apps to track and help us sleep. We know what temperature our bedrooms should be, we try to exercise and eat right, we take supplements. Yet many of us STILL have concerns about their nightly sleep & daily energy. It's time for a different perspective: one that helps us understand and address root causes of our sleeplessness. Learn from Kali Patrick: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-04-21-webinar-sleep
Leading from Home with Mindfulness: Strategies for Stress Resilience in an Online Workplace April 15, 2020, 12:00 - 1:00 PM This hands on session led by Sarah Stuart, CEO and top mindfulness instructor at Really Mindful Group, is equally appropriate for beginners to mindfulness-based strategies and for experienced practitioners. Participants will come away with a clear understanding of what mindfulness is, the breadth of scientific research supporting it and how various techniques can be used to help navigate and lead through stress. The workshop will include several short, guided mindfulness practices that can be used at work and in everyday life. Participants will leave the session with simple, clear take aways that they can start to experiment with in the laboratory of their lives the moment they leave the session. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-04-15-webinar-mindfulness Maximize Your Seat at the Table Webinar The literal and proverbial “seat at the table” represents your ability to have a voice in your organization and successfully influence others. Some women struggle to get to the table. Others experience challenges maximizing their seat when they get there. To expand your influence, make a bigger impact and more effectively achieve your professional goals, you need to make your voice heard. As women, however, many of us struggle to find our voices in the workplace. With increased confidence, communication skills and political savvy, you can maximize your seat at the table. In this session, you’ll learn from Kim Meninger how to get a seat, effectively use your seat and maintain your seat for the long-term. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-04-01-Webinar-Influence-Communication WEST Virtual Gathering: Finding community in the midst of social distancing March 25, 2020, 6:00 - 7:15 PM Are you feeling cooped up by working from home every day, and longing for some social interaction, now that most public events are cancelled? Then come join us for our first ever Virtual Community Gathering. We're planning this free, virtual event for March 25th, as a replacement for one of our rescheduled in-person events. We'll be gathering, via Zoom, for an hour or so of small-group breakout sessions as well as full-group discussions led by members of the WEST Board of Directors and Advisory Board. You'll have the chance to network with members of our community in virtual Zoom breakout rooms, and to share your career advice and experiences of coping with COVID-19. Come brainstorm with us, both during the Zoom gathering, and perhaps afterwards, on ways we can stay connected, support each other, and stay focused on the things we can control in our work and in our lives. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-03-25-virtual-gathering Giving and Receiving Feedback Almost everyone struggles with giving and receiving feedback. Yet everyone struggles for different reasons:
All of this means that learning how to give meaningful feedback, is not one-size-fits-all. We’ll explore ways you can become more comfortable giving and asking for feedback. You’ll learn several simple, yet powerful, techniques to take the sting and awkwardness out of the feedback conversation. You’ll discover how to ask for and receive feedback in a way that feels natural to you. For managers, you’ll learn questions you can ask your team, to help YOU become a better manager. For all participants, you’ll learn ways to offer feedback to your peers and even your boss! Participants will learn 4 basic steps to give meaningful feedback in a way that feels safe for both the giver and receiver. You'll be able to apply these steps immediately, in your personal life, and in your career. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-03-03-giving-receiving-feedback How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work, we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables, and time tables. At home, some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. We’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. This workshop will be led by Amy Rebecca Gay. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-02-18-networking-breakfast Rockstar Breakfast and Networking Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Gary Conboy, Vice President, Oncology Development Operations; Head, Innovation Group - Oncology SBU at Bayer and Jon Giebel, Program Lead at Bayer LifeHub. Patrice Torcivia Prusko, Associate Director at Harvard Graduate School of Education will moderate the discussion. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-02-18-networking-breakfast Using Self-Promotion Strategies to Raise Your Visibility, Increase Your Influence and Advance Your Career Many women are reluctant to actively promote their value because it feels self-serving or inauthentic. Rather than promote themselves, they prefer to believe that their work will speak for itself. Unfortunately, without the confidence and commitment to share your value with others, you may lose out on important opportunities to raise your visibility, make a bigger impact and advance within your organization. In this webinar led by Kim Meninger, you’ll learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-01-23-self-promotion-webinar Women and Wine Wednesday January 8, 2020, 6:00 - 8:30 PM MIT Sloan Boston Alumni Association and WEST are partnering to offer a Women and Wine Wednesday reception. Join us and meet awesome women or connect with familiar faces.
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-01-08-Networking Navigating the Art and Science of Negotiation January 13, 2020, 8:00 - 9:30 AM In our ever-changing, competitive world, it can be challenging to stay ahead of the curve and influence outcomes that set you (and your business) up for success. Negotiation is part of our everyday lives and shows up everywhere. In business, it’s a critical component to success. While negotiation strategies seem simple, it’s not unusual for people to get caught up in the emotion of the moment and lose sight of the plan. In this session, Treena Diebolt, will teach you the principles of negotiation and show you how to effectively prepare for negotiation discussions, build a strategy and leverage win-win solutions, navigate the landscape of emotions, and close the deal. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2020-01-13-negotiation-workshop 2019
Holiday Cocktail Party and Networking WEST and Cooley invite you to a Holiday Cocktail Party for an evening of networking and festive food and drinks. Please join us to celebrate the holidays, connect with members, exchange ideas, learn about job openings and more. This event is free for members thanks to Cooley’s generous sponsorship. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-12-12-boston-networking-holiday-party Career Possibilities: Business Development, Alliance Management, Innovation, Licensing December 5, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. Then you will get some small group time with the panelists during a few speed networking rounds. The panel portion will be moderated by Yelena Wetherill, Associate Director, Alliance Management, Business Development & Licensing at Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Inc. Panelists Include
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-12-05-Career-Possibilities-Business-Networking Navigating the Art and Science of Negotiation December 3, 2019, 8:00 - 9:30 AM This event will be rescheduled due to the extreme weather. In our ever-changing, competitive world, it can be challenging to stay ahead of the curve and influence outcomes that set you (and your business) up for success. Negotiation is part of our everyday lives and shows up everywhere. In business, it’s a critical component to success. While negotiation strategies seem simple, it’s not unusual for people to get caught up in the emotion of the moment and lose sight of the plan. This session will teach you the principles of negotiation and show you how to:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-12-03-negotiation-workshop Wait. What? Or How to Get Curious When Someone is Clearly Wrong November 19, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Our most difficult conversations are characterized by our near certainty that we are right and they are wrong. This would be OK if the only opinion that mattered was our own. The challenge is that when we need to lead and collaborate, their opinions and perspectives matter, too. However, it is nearly impossible to get curious about what they are thinking if we are stuck in our own certainty. In this workshop led by Amy Rebecca Gay, you will learn a simple and time-tested tool to step out of our certainty and into a stance of curiosity where questions flow more easily, shifting the conversation into constructive and collaborative dialogue More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-11-19-difficult-conversations-curious Career Possibilities: R&D/Application - AI, Digital Health, Devices In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. Then you will get some small group time with the panelists during a few speed networking rounds. The panel portion will be moderated by Mary Ann O'Loughlin, Principal, Cambridge Consulting and Coaching. Panelists Include
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-11-07-Career-Possibilities-Devices-Networking How to Make Your Ideas Irresistible - SOLD OUT At the heart of communications lies one seemingly elusive goal: how can we actually get people to love our ideas as much as we do? Thankfully, there’s a surprisingly simple answer, and it lies in how we come up with our ideas in the first place. Tamsen Webster spent 20 years making messages to move minds and markets and four years turning ideas into action as the Executive Producer of one of the largest TEDx events in the world. During this interactive session the audience will learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-10-30-communication-ideas-workshop Interrupting Bias October 24, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Despite strides towards inclusion and equity in our society, messages abound about what it means to be of certain identities. We are socialized with these stereotypes all around us and these messages are so pervasive that despite our best intentions, we sometimes fall into biased behaviors and thinking, often unconsciously. In this workshop led by Chris Haigh, we will define bias, understand where it comes from, reflect on our own biases, and examine strategies for interrupting bias in ourselves and others. Come prepared to engage in self-reflection and in dialogue with your colleagues about an issue that truly affects us all. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-10-24-hidden-bias-workshop Break Free from Imposter Syndrome: Embrace Your Competent, Capable Self - SOLD OUT Why do so many individuals fear being exposed as a fraud? Why the self-doubt and self-devaluation? In this seminar led by Michelle Greer Galloway, you will learn:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-10-17-Imposter-Syndrome-Workshop Career Possibilities - Research & Development - Biotech, Pharma, Medical In the world of business, careers are no longer linear or predictable. What was once a clearly sign-posted path as you progressed through milestones, a career road map is now circuitous presenting new challenges and opportunities at every bend. Life-long careers in one sector or one company are becoming a rarity as new technologies and shifting social norms disrupt traditional careers. Both employers and employees are seeking more diversity of experience, lifestyle flexibility and alternative paths. This panel is designed to help you think about your career path and the different options that are open to you. The panel will have an informational interview type feel with panelists sharing their career paths, a look at what their job entails, transferrable skills for those looking to make a change, tips for uncovering opportunities, advice for others, and how to make brave leaps. Then you will get some small group time with the panelists during a few speed networking rounds. The panel portion will be moderated by Jo Viney, Co-Founder, President and CSO at Pandion Therapeutics. Panelists include More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-10-08-Career-Possibilities-Biotech-Networking Your Career is Your Business. Own It! SOLD OUT In our fast-paced, overstimulated world, it’s difficult to be purposeful and intentional about how we manage our careers. When we are not intentional, however, we rely on others to guide our careers, which may not align with our own values and goals. We may also have unrealistic expectations of the support others will provide. While supportive managers and mentors are valuable resources, to maximize our success, we must empower ourselves to drive our own careers. In this interactive workshop led by Kim Meninger, you will learn how to:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-09-05-strengths-career-path-workshop The Two Most Powerful Skills to Becoming a Great Manager Learn How to Delegate and Empower Your Team Why is it so hard to delegate? What’s stopping you from letting go? Do you know the most frequent complaint people make about their managers? They’re micromanagers? Are you one? Are you struggling with a boss who is micromanaging you? Wouldn’t you like to change the situation? In this one-hour, interactive webinar you’ll:
You’ll emerge knowing how to delegate in a way that is aligned with your working style, and how to decrease your stress and increase your influence. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-08-21-manager-delegate-webinar You've Been Promoted to Manager: Where Do You Start? Have you recently been promoted to a managerial role and don’t know where to begin? Or, have you been in your role for a while, but frustrated that even though you’re working harder and longer, you’re still overwhelmed? We’ll take a look at some of the challenges all managers face. We’ll discuss ways you can harness your existing skills, to help you decrease your stress, and become more effective and happier in your job. You’ll discover ways you can begin today, to feel more confident in your role. In this one-hour interactive workshop led by Etta Jacobs, you’ll have the chance to ask questions, learn new skills, and brainstorm solutions for some of the challenges you face. You’ll also:
More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-08-07-manager-promotion-webinar Emotional Intelligence as a Leadership Predictor July 31, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM We are all familiar with IQ but what about the role of EQ, Emotional Intelligence, as a measure of potential leadership success and ultimately organizational performance? Emotional Intelligence requires effective communication between the rational and emotional centers of the brain – it represents the path between feeling and reason. There are 4 skills that together make up Emotional Intelligence; self awareness, self management, social awareness and relationship management. Studies have found: - EQ is a required competency for effective leaders This interactive session led by Rita Balian Allen will provide an overview of EQ and the role it can play in building a powerful leadership team and improving operational efficiency. It will include introduction of the brain science behind the theory of emotional intelligence, tips and strategies for developing required competencies, and the importance of building the business case for growing emotionally intelligent leaders. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-07-31-leadership-workshop Annual Networking Night WEST’s Annual Networking Night is a great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-07-24-networking-night Women in Venture Panel Discussion - SOLD OUT July 16, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Venture Capital is a critical component of the life science ecosystem. Yet, the challenge of accessing VC investment or building a career in venture for women remains a common topic in the industry. Boston is fortunate to have a growing number of women in venture across all stages of investments, investment areas and seniority. Please join us in a panel discussion with leading women investors as they discuss their own career paths and what it’s like to be an investor in the life sciences. Panelists Include: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-07-16-venture-capital-panel Rockstar Breakfast and Networking - SOLD OUT Are you looking for an opportunity to network with senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Charlotte Allerton, Senior Vice President and Head of Medicine Design at Pfizer and Joanne Kotz, Cofounder, President and CEO of Jnana Therapeutics. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-06-26-networking-breakfast Building Your Company Culture and Developing Your People June 20, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Corporate Culture is a hot topic these days especially in our ever-changing world. As an employee, manager, or executive, have you ever asked yourself: • Is my company’s culture something I can design or is it something that just happens?
• How I do ingrain learning and development into my culture?
• Is there a “right” culture for my company?
• Does my company's culture attract really great people to join?
• What should my role be in defining and influencing my corporate culture? Does my role as I progress into management?
• How can I influence and encourage diversity and inclusion at my company?
• Who “owns” corporate culture in my company?
Panelists include: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-06-20-company-culture-panel How to Inspire, Advocate and Grow During Change Change. It can be unexpected, feel pushed on us, or have consequences we wish were different. Yet, change presents an opportunity to thrive: To build your advocacy muscles, hone your strategic thinking, and stand up for what's right. During this interactive workshop led by Claudette Rowley, you'll learn a three-phase system for assessing, designing, and implementing your best responses to change. You'll leave with tools, strategies, and an initial plan for handling the next unexpected change you encounter. This workshop will be followed by a panel discussion with panelists sharing how they manage change. The panel will be moderated by Mary Ann O'Loughlin, Principal, Cambridge Coaching and Consulting. Panelists include: More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-06-12-change-management-workshop Finding your Voice Among all the Chatter May 15, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM We all have an inner dialogue that can sabotage the best of intentions. Just because we want to say something, doesn’t mean that we are able to. Sometimes our body does something different! Have you ever gone into a meeting determined to speak your mind or prepared to take a stand and when you have the chance, you feel like you can’t? We all have that internal chatter that speaks so loudly it takes over our voice sometimes. Oftentimes, that voice is the voice of other people from our past. Our mind can be very good at recalling instances when we were shut down or shamed paving the path for our body to repeat those patterns. In this workshop, Andrea will share practices and strategies for you to take that step to speak your voice. We will explore the historical and habitual patterns we have adopted that have shaped who we are and have the opportunity to reflect on our experience with fellow learners. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-05-15-finding-your-voice-workshop Career Book Club May 22, July 17, September 18, November 20, 2019, and January 15, 2020, 6:00 - 8:30 PM WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to four sessions to create a supportive community. We will have a facilitator for each discussion group who will have read the book, so even if you don't finish the whole book you should still attend and enjoy the conversation. We understand people get busy at certain times of the year and may not get to finish every book. The books were selected based on surveying the WEST community and include You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero, Being Strategic: Plan for Success; Out-think Your Competitors; Stay Ahead of Change by Erika Andersen, Grit by Angela Duckworth, Ditch Your Inner Critic At Work: Evidence-Based Strategies To Thrive In Your Career by Susan Peppercorn, and How Remarkable Women Lead: The Breakthrough Model for Work and Life by Joanna Barsh. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-west-career-book-club Equity Compensation April 24, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Do you have any stock options? Do you know what restricted stock units are all about? Do you understand the tax implications of options, RSU’s, and vested stock? Do you want to understand how your equity compensation might (or might not!) help you build wealth? Equity compensation can be a confusing topic. To unravel some of the mysteries, please join Judi Reed, Financial Advisor, and Robert Peretti, Equity Compensation Specialist, of Morgan Stanley, for a workshop to discuss the basics and the nuances that could impact you financially. To understand equity compensation in a broader context, they will also discuss the importance of having a financial plan to help you achieve your personal goals as well as build wealth through your 401k plan and other investment vehicles. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-04-24-equity-compensation Rockstar Breakfast Are you looking for an opportunity to network with senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Sonia Israel, Founder of Aifred Health and Rosana Kapeller, Entrepreneur in Residence at GV. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-04-12-Networking-Breakfast Managing Up April 10, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM How can you effectively negotiate the relationship that has the most impact on your career, and still be yourself? How can you have power with your manager, being cooperative and expressive? Managing up is not about manipulation or capitulation. Rather it’s learning to influence with respect, and broaden your horizons to speculate about the pressures and demands which may be outside of your view. It’s about influencing diplomatically yet authentically. Being intentional about challenging a plan. How can you get what you need at the same time you’re focusing on what your manager needs? Led by Janet Britcher and Michèle Barnett Berg. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-04-10-managing-up-workshop "Own It" Senior Panel Discussion Join us for this flagship event to learn from seasoned senior leaders as they tell us about their inspiring journeys to success in the fast-paced world of science and technology. The topic will be our annual theme, "Own It! Empowering Your Career & Your Life." Hear advice they have for owning your career and taking charge of your future by exploiting your strengths with confidence and fine-tuning your skills to ask for what you want and need. Network with movers and shakers in the science and technology community and support career advancement of the next generation of women leaders in STEM! More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-04-03-own-it-panel-cambridge Both Sides of Negotiating Equal Pay March 13, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Sometimes you are the employee negotiating a new job, raise, or end of year bonus. Other times, you are the manager negotiating those same things on behalf of your employer. Regardless of your role, your actions impact the equality of the ultimate compensation decision. Both Sides of Negotiating Equal Pay with Katie Donovan teaches you how some of the best practices in hiring, promotion, and review processes prevent achieving pay equity, ironically by assuming equality already exists. More importantly this workshop will share what you can do in both roles to close gender and other pay gaps. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-03-13-negotiate-equal-pay-workshop Seven Habits of Effective Networkers WEST and The Society of Professional Consultants are partnering to bring you this engaging workshop. When you hear the word 'networking' do you think of an overly-aggressive person pitching you for a deal? You're not alone! Everyone knows that we get more done when we help others and have them help us. But how do you build that network with a sense of authenticity? In this talk, Diane Darling shares her go-to strategies that help everyone learn how to master the art of networking. You’ll gain a better sense of confidence on what events to attend, how to reconnect with someone you've lost touch with, and ways to stay top of mind. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-03-11-effective-networking-workshop Get on Board: Inside the Board of Directors February 7, 2019, 6:00 - 8:30 PM If you would like to serve on a board, are already on a board, or work with a board, join us for Get on Board! The panelists are directors of both for-profit and nonprofit organization boards, and will address issues relating to service as directors, including the combinations of skills and experiences that boards are seeking, how to best position yourself for nonprofit or for-profit board candidacy, resources available to help you identify and take advantage of both paid and volunteer board opportunities, what it’s like to serve as a director on a board, and issues particular to women on boards. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-02-07-board-of-directors-panel How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables and time tables. At home some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. With Amy Rebecca Gay, we’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2019-01-30-negotiate-advocate-workshop Own It: WEST Annual Awards and Networking Night On January 23rd, WEST will host our annual Awards and Networking Night. This marquee event provides WEST an opportunity to look back on 2018 and look ahead to 2019. It also gives us a chance to thank and recognize the community that has contributed to making 2018 one of our most successful years ever. This year, we will honor members and sponsors of the WEST community who exemplify the spirit of WEST and our 2018-2019 theme: “Own It: Empowering Your Career & Your Life.” Many of our sponsors helped us to select awardees - individuals from their companies who advance women leaders, serve as exemplary leaders or role models, or those who give back to the community in meaningful ways. 2018
Holiday Cocktail Party WEST and Cooley invite you to a Holiday Cocktail Party for an evening of networking and festive food and drinks. Please join us to celebrate the holidays, connect with members, exchange ideas, learn about job openings and more. This event is free thanks to the generous sponsorship of Cooley. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-12-11-boston-networking-holiday-party Redefining Success - Bring Your Values Alive at Work: Discover What Success Means to You! What does it mean to have it all? Whose definition of success is driving your career? Are you struggling to define what “Success means to me”? In this interactive workshop, we will use the principles of Appreciative Inquiry—a model of organizational change that focuses on your strengths and your values—to gain insights into what matters most to you in your career, and in your day-to-day experience. You will gain clarity about what excites and energizes you. If you are not fully engaged in your current role, it may be because you are not tapping into all your strengths. We will explore ways to incorporate your strengths and your values more intentionally in your role. You will discover if your role is fully aligned with your values—and what shifts you can make—to reprioritize your goals to align with your values, and find deeper satisfaction and success in your career. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-12-05-strengths-success-values-career Building a Team You Can Trust November 15, 2018, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Do you struggle to get the results you want from your team? You hand over work, but you’re never sure it will be done the way you want it. You don’t want to micromanage, but you also don’t want work that’s not up to par. So, you end up taking it back and doing it yourself, until you are overworked and overwhelmed. Imagine how different your work life would be if you were part of a team you could trust — with your direct reports and your peers — where people were committed and productive, crushing deadlines and delivering promotion-worthy results. Imagine how much could be accomplished... In the workshop you'll learn: The 3 most important things you can do to build trust and reduce conflict on any team, why trying to do too much yourself is one of the WORST things you can do for your career, and what you can do instead, and how to easily increase your influence and authority without coming across as pushy or hyper-competitive. Focusing on the work where you add the most value can have an enormous impact on your career, and on your day-to-day satisfaction. In order to do that, you need a team you can trust. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-11-15-trust-team-workshop To MBA or Not to MBA At some point in your career, many people ask themselves: I’m succeeding in my STEM career but what’s next? Do I need an MBA to get to the next level? Could leveraging my STEM background by combining it with the in-demand skills of leadership and business be a game changer for my career? Decide for yourself by listening to the experiences of our four esteemed panelists – Some who have an MBA and others who do not – and learn which factors you should consider in this decision. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-11-13-mba-or-not-boston Interrupting Bias Despite strides towards inclusion and equity in our society, messages abound about what it means to be of certain identities. We are socialized with these stereotypes all around us and these messages are so pervasive that despite our best intentions, we sometimes fall into biased behaviors and thinking, often unconsciously. In this workshop led by Chris Haigh, we will define bias, understand where it comes from, reflect on our own biases, and examine strategies for interrupting bias in ourselves and others. Come prepared to engage in self-reflection and in dialogue with your colleagues about an issue that truly affects us all. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-10-23-hidden-bias-workshop Career Paths and Working in Industry Biogen's WIN group is offering roundtable discussions with women from various areas of Biogen. They will be talking to female grad students and post-docs about their career paths and decision to work in industry. This event will be limited to the first 30 to register and sells out every year. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-10-16-career-paths Networking Night Bristol-Myers Squibb will soon be opening its new R&D site in Cambridge. They are inviting the WEST community to join them for a casual networking event to meet their leaders, learn more about the site, and learn about some of the skills and backgrounds they are looking for as they seek to build their Cambridge team. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-10-11-biotech-pharma-networking How to Advocate for Yourself We negotiate every day. At work we negotiate not just our jobs and salaries, but research priorities, budgets, staffing, deliverables and time tables. At home some of us negotiate child care pick up and drop off, who is making dinner and who stays home when the kids are sick. While men and women are equally skilled negotiators, women face some additional challenges. Not only were many of us not raised to advocate for our own interests, but we sometimes pay a social cost when we assert our needs and interests. With Amy Gay, we’ll dive into what we negotiate, our beliefs around advocating for ourselves, how to mitigate others’ negative perceptions when we assert our interests and two tools for increasing our effectiveness. You will leave with a better understanding of what is getting in your way and what to do about it. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-10-03-negotiate-advocate-workshop Successful Communication: How to Build Your Skill in Handling Challenging Conversations Do you notice a sense of discomfort or even dread when you know you have a difficult conversation that needs to happen? Do you leave these conversations feeling less than resolved or understood, or question whether anything will change as a result? In this workshop led by Sue Williamson, you will bring your own challenging conversation and work with it using a model, specific steps, and practice in effectively preparing for and engaging in your conversation. We will talk about the ladder of inference and the power of assumptions and then use a 5 step process to prepare for any challenging conversation. Come join us and build skill and confidence in your abilities to be successful communicators in often emotional scenarios. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-10-02-difficult-conversations-workshop Improving the Quality and Impact of our Conversations through Conversational Intelligence™ September 20, 2018, 6:00 - 8:30 PM We have long thought of communication as a soft skill and given it little attention. Yet it, more than anything else, is the cause of problems and the source of solutions in our businesses and in our lives. Everything happens through conversations. Conversational Intelligence (C-IQ) provides frameworks and tools, based on neuroscience, that elevate the quality of our conversations and our results by creating the conditions for increased trust, creativity and collaboration. In this interactive session led by Cindy Loughran, participants will gain a basic understanding of Conversational Intelligence. They will become familiar with neuroscientific research on conversations and why it matters, identify two core human needs that impact the effectiveness of our conversations, and gain specific tools that increase the impact of conversations in order to build trust and encourage greater creativity and collaboration. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-09-20-conversational-intelligence-workshop No Title? No Problem! Influencing Without Authority Are you leading a project or team without formal authority? Do you have some great ideas but you need others’ support to successfully execute? Do you want to influence important decisions outside of your immediate responsibility? Do you want to want to persuade your boss but you aren't sure how to position yourself? In this age of heightened business complexity, to get things done often requires the support of many others both inside and outside your own organization, department or team. Many change initiatives involve multiple functions within and even between organizations, requiring managers to exercise influence over people without formal authority. In this interactive workshop led by Ank Stuyfzand, we'll explore the key factors for becoming more influential; ways to build credibility, strengthen relationships, and enhance your communication style... all to increase your ability to influence those critical to your success. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-09-13-influence-without-authority-workshop Developing Presence August 1, 2018, 6:00 - 8:30 P Today's leaders need more than a great resume, they need Presence - the ability to connect, inspire and influence others at all levels. In this 90-minute workshop led by Angie O'Donnell, we'll describe three elements of Presence that apply to everyone, regardless of your role, that can easily be learned and refined. You'll leave with some tips and techniques for creating a positive first impression, enhancing your verbal presence, and being intentional about connecting with others. Learn to make a memorable connection without self-promoting. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-08-01-developing-presence Annual Networking Night WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-07-31-networking-night Leadership Strategies to Advance Your Career Sandra Glucksmann, President & CEO at Cedilla Therapeutics, will share stories of her career challenges and successes. She will discuss how to best apply your scientific and analytical abilities to develop influence and negotiation skills. Sandra will share her learning experiences as she transitioned from bench scientist to manager, and from manager to executive in both small and large company settings. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-07-25-leadership-strategies-advance-stem-career LinkedIn & Networking: Your Reputation Precedes You With increasing recruitment and professional networking activity online, we are often not aware when we make our first impression on someone new. For this reason, it is critical to be engaged and well-connected - to optimize our online presence and to make the most of the tools available. In this workshop led by Ryan Higginson-Scott, we will focus on effective utilization of LinkedIn, as well as review how marketing principles like search engine optimization (SEO) and brand differentiation apply to job seekers, influencers, and even passive industry professionals. Discussion topics will include tips for creating a strong online presence & LinkedIn profile, as well as your Google results, and the strategy around consistency in networking - both online and in-person. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-06-27-linkedin-networking-boston-workshop Career Coaching Circles Coaching circles adapt the principles and methods of individual coaching and apply them to small, intentional groups. They set the stage for peer to peer coaching facilitated by trained and qualified professional coaches offering women a supportive and motivating environment to connect through meaningful conversations. Participants develop a set of peer coaching skills in addition to benefiting from professional coaching, and are often preferred by people who learn well in small groups. Join us to establish new relationships, enhance leadership skills and talents, and develop in an area that is a current challenge. We will do three 30 minute sessions. Some of the table topics will be preset and some will be based on ideas submitted when people register to attend. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-06-20-peer-coaching-groups Career Management for Today's Work Environment The world of work is dramatically changing; the impacts of globalization and technology, for example, have led to a shift in the paradigm defining our careers. Effective career management accounts for this reality and requires an understanding of your own interests, values, skills as well as your options. While organizations can lend support and resources, it is largely up to each of us to own and be intentional about the development of our careers. This workshop will give you the opportunity to take stock of your career preferences, motives, drivers and interests through an online assessment you will take prior to the workshop. During our time together you will receive your individual assessment results and explore the implications for your career with a supportive group of peers. You will leave with energy, ideas to implement and a roadmap for next steps in managing your career. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-06-13-Career-Workshop-Women-Cambridge Leadership and Women of the Future Awards and Panel Discussion Jun 12, 2018, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Our exposure to great role models and sponsors can substantially influence how our careers grow and develop. Please join us for an evening to honor inspirational established women leaders who have made their mark. Hear these established leaders describe the secrets to their own success, and learn more about the attributes that they are seeing exemplified in outstanding women from the next generation. Be inspired, network, get good tips, and celebrate the career advancement of all levels women in STEM! More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-06-12-leadership-women-awards Career Possibilities and Speed Networking Night Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by people who have used their science and technical training to advance their careers in different directions? Join us for WEST’s Annual Career Possibilities Event. The evening will start with facilitated networking, so you can meet the other attendees and panelists. This will be followed by a panel discussion to learn more about each panelist and their key lessons learned. Then you will have the opportunity to break into small groups and talk with the different panelists. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-06-06-stem-career-possibilities-networking Providing Impactful Feedback Up, Down, and Across Join Executive Communication Coach and Trainer, Tori Hollingworth, for a highly interactive session designed to provide participants with tools and techniques to increase credibility, improve interpersonal effectiveness and strengthen messaging when interacting in a performance review, delivering feedback to senior management, initiating behavior change and providing updates to direct reports, colleagues and/or organizational leaders. The goal of this session is to increase each participant’s comfort and effectiveness when delivering feedback within all levels of their organization. The skills learned will be relevant in a variety of settings whether face-to- face, virtually or in small groups. This coaching experience will help speakers identify their areas of communication need, strengthen their feedback communication through practice, establish building trust and maintaining relationships, and refine their interpersonal style. There will be multiple opportunities for practice with feedback from both the participants and the coach. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-05-23-impactful-feedback-workshop Book Club WEST is offering a book club for WEST members focusing on women's career advancement. We will have a meeting with a new book every other month. We would like participants to commit to four sessions to create a supportive community. We will have a facilitator for each discussion group who will have read the book, so those who do not finish the whole book should still feel comfortable attending and joining in the conversation. We understand people get busy at certain times of the year and may not get to finish every book. We have selected the books based on member suggestions. More Information: https://www.westorg.org/2018-west-career-book-club Patent and Trademark Considerations for Start-Ups May 14, 2018, 6:00 - 8:30 PM This workshop will include presentations by Elizabeth Spar and Lisa Tittemore, partners at the Intellectual Property firm of Sunstein, Kann, Murphy and Timbers, LLP. The workshop will address strategies for using patents and trademarks for competitive advantage, including building and managing a valuable patent portfolio, aligning patent strategy to deal with competitors, and the importance of searching and protecting trademarks, with attention on specific considerations for start-up companies. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-05-14-Patent-Trademark-Start-Up-Workshop Rockstar Breakfast May 8, 2018, 8:00 - 9:00 AM Are you looking for an opportunity to network with local senior tech leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Larry Friedman, Tim Mugherini, and Sabine Schilg. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-05-08-networking-breakfast How to Present Technical Information so People Will Understand, Care, and Remember How well can you explain complex science and technology concepts to people outside your field of expertise? If you work in biotech, pharma, or engineering, you’ve learned your presentations need more than snazzy slides and polished prose to keep your audience engaged. If you want to capture and keep an audience’s attention, you need to explain your technical topic in an uncomplicated way. In this session, you’ll learn a proven process to structure your technical talk so your audience understands, cares, and remembers. You'll also get access to a planning worksheet you can use to make your presentations memorable and understandable. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-04-26-Communicating-Technical-Information How Does a Start-Up Embrace Open Innovation with a Large Corporation Senior STEM leaders from organizations ranging from incubator to startup to large corporations will share their perspectives on the topic of open innovation and how they help their company embrace it. Key discussion points will include methods for encouraging entrepreneurial concepts, approaches for launching new companies, and how a start-up can adopt open innovation including when/how they start working with larger corporations. Learn what works well and what pitfalls to avoid. Take advantage of this event to meet and network with the movers and shakers in the local STEM ecosystem. Panelists - Ena Cratsenburg, Chief Business Officer at Ginkgo Bioworks, Inc. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-04-23-Startup-Open-Innovation Innovation and Entrepreneurship Senior Panel Discussion - SOLD OUT Join us for this flagship event to learn from seasoned senior leaders as they tell us about their inspiring journeys to success in the fast-paced world of science and technology. Hear what it takes to be truly innovative and entrepreneurial in a variety of highly competitive environments where collaboration and teamwork is essential. Network with movers and shakers in the science and technology community and support career advancement of the next generation of women leaders in STEM! The discussion will be moderated by Jo Viney, Co-Founder and CSO of Pandion Therapeutics. Panelists include: Adelene Perkins, Chair, President, and CEO, Infinity Pharmaceuticals; Ros Deegan, President and CBO, Bicycle Therapeutics, Inc.; Alan Crane, Entrepreneur Partner, Polaris Partners; Meredith Fisher, Partner, Partners Innovation Fund; Danielle Lauzon, Partner, Goodwin Law LLP; and Kristina Allikmets, VP, Head of R&D Patient Outreach & PD, Takeda More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-04-11-Innovation-Entrepreneurship-Panel Rockstar Breakfast Are you looking for an opportunity to network with senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Sheila Rowan, Katie, and Mariana Nacht. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-04-05-Networking-Breakfast One or the Other: How Balancing Polarities Improves Work for Individuals, Teams, and Organizations Every day, all of us as individuals, teams, and organizations are faced with managing and reconciling between a series of polarities—two seemingly opposing values. Examples include work/life, activity/rest, intuition/facts, stability/change, mission/profit, team needs/individual needs, centralized/decentralized. Polarities can complement each other when approached in a balanced way, but too often we fall into the trap of thinking about them as either/or instead of both/and. We go to extremes like working 20 hours a day for weeks on end, or looking only to data to determine a decision while ignoring intuition or other less concrete factors. In this workshop with Etta Jacobs and Beth Shapiro, we’ll explore a model for balancing polarities. Using real examples from your own work, you’ll learn how to identify the “early warning signs” that you are leaning too far to one side, as well as action steps that can enable you and your team to optimize and balance your thinking and your work. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-03-29-work-life-balance-workshop-for-women-in-stem Intersection of Computing and Biotech Panel Discussion - SOLD OUT Listen to the inspiring journeys of successful women and men leaders in science as they talk about their pathways to success. Highlights will include details on their career paths, obstacles they overcame, things that helped them along the way, and tips and strategies that can also work for you. This is a great opportunity for you to meet and network with the movers and shakers in the local science ecosystem. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-03-22-computing-biotech-panel Coaching Circles Coaching circles adapt the principles and methods of individual coaching and apply them to small, intentional groups. They set the stage for peer to peer coaching facilitated by trained and qualified professional coaches offering women a supportive and motivating environment to connect through meaningful conversations. Participants develop a set of peer coaching skills in addition to benefiting from professional coaching, and are often preferred by people who learn well in small groups. Join us to establish new relationships, enhance leadership skills and talents, and develop in an area that is a current challenge. We will do three 30 minute sessions. Some of the table topics will be preset and some will be based on ideas submitted when people register to attend. The preset topics will include Advancing in Your Career, Influence Without Authority/ Conflict Resolution, Communication/ Building Better Relationships, Personal Branding, Confidence, and Work/Life Balance. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-03-06-peer-coaching-groups Zoom Leadership: Change Your Focus. Change Your Insights Your boss rushes in and says, “I need this issue solved by tomorrow.” What happens? Often we freeze, trying to decide what to do with all the other requests that are due. Stress reduces creative problem solving. Or, if you can relax enough to plan next steps, you might even have too many possible ways you address the issue. Decisions decisions. They are a part of every day. Wouldn’t it be great to have a tool that could open up new ideas and also narrow them down? Janet Britcher, author of Zoom Leadership: Change Your Focus, Change Your Insights, will be presenting techniques that can help when evaluating decisions, such as promotion opportunities. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-02-15-tools-for-decision-making-workshop Negotiating Your Compensation Package: Financial Strategies for Professional Transitions Are you planning a career change? Thinking of jumping to a competitor? Has a recruiter contacted you about a new job opportunity? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you will need to have a strategy in place to negotiate the best possible compensation package for yourself. Unfortunately, research has shown that women are far less likely to negotiate for higher pay, which may be contributing to the gender pay gap. In this program, financial advisor Beata Dragovics provides an overview of the current compensation landscape within the life sciences industry, along with key considerations before changing jobs. Among the topics to be discussed:
More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-02-07-wealth-management-negotiation-workshop 10th Annual Giving Back Awards - SOLD OUT Meet the extraordinary and inspiring women being honored and hear the stories of how they have made a profound impact on society. The honorees are role models who balance job and personal responsibilities while making a difference in their community. Join us to congratulate them, be inspired, network, and support the career advancement of women in the enterprise of science and technology! More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-01-25-10th-annual-giving-back-awards Rockstar Breakfast with Cissy Young - SOLD OUT Headed toward senior leadership in your career trajectory? Thinking about joining a Board? This is a great breakfast for you. Cissy Young of Russell Reynolds will share her leadership learnings and experience. She will speak about talent selection for executive positions and for Board positions. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 30 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-01-24-networking-breakfast Tools for Leading Ourselves -- In Life & In Our Career There are many principles and tools to help us lead ourselves better. Scott Stolze will cover his 12 principles we can use to become better leaders of ourselves. Those principles involve learning, emotional Intelligence, authenticity, not living up or down to others, persistence, thinking for yourself, choosing courage over confidence, life ‘systems’ over goals, being accountable, mental strength, gratitude over expectations, and living in a growth mindset vs. fixed mindset. The workshop will cover all of these topics and really dive into emotional intelligence and developing your skills in self awareness, self regulation, empathy, and social skills along with not living up, not living down, not comparing, not envy, and not put yourself down. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-01-16-leading-yourself-workshop Leading Highly Productive, Engaged Remote Teams Leading people has its challenges under the best of circumstances. When you lead dispersed teams, the challenges are magnified ten-fold. Geographic distance is just one of the many hurdles to overcome. Traditional leadership methods don’t work in this new workplace. Building trust among team members, creating respectful relationships that transcend distance and allowing for higher levels of personal autonomy are critical. Leaders must change their approach and developing innovative skills to successfully lead. In this session, participants will learn practical techniques for building effective team cohesion, engagement, cooperation and resilience from Mari Anne Snow. Participants will practice remote work techniques for establishing trusted relationships; creating and communicating a shared team vision; developing clear communication protocols and building team autonomy that incorporates individual accountability. More Information: http://www.westorg.org/2018-01-10-leading-remote-teams-workshop 2017
Strategies for Juggling the Complex Role of Manager Consider this; managing the work, managing and developing your people, firefighting, subject matter expert, key communicator, and improving process are just some of the roles that you play in your job as a manager. Does it sometimes feel overwhelming? In this workshop with Sue Williamson, we will explore the complexities of these demands and strategies for more effectively flexing from one arena to the next. Using an experiential exercise as a platform, we will cover managing up, down and across, effective delegation, streamlining communications, and time and energy management structures and tips - all in the interest of giving you more core hour work time to do your most value add work! More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-12-12-management-skills-workshop Career Advice You Won't Get From Your Boss
In today’s working world, where job ladders are a thing of the past, people need to take charge and strategically manage their career path. But self-directing your own career development can feel overwhelming. Do you want to deploy more of your professional passion in your current organization but can’t quite overcome barriers? Are you feeling stuck in your life or job? How can you take advantage of today’s uncertainty and ambiguity to jumpstart your own career changes? In this interactive and inspiring session with author Lisa Prior, founder of Prior Consulting and author of Take Charge of Your VIEW: Career Advice You Won’t Get From Your Boss, you’ll learn the secrets to creating win-win growth opportunities for yourself and your organization. Through a fireside chat and guided experiences you will leave with one idea and one concrete practice, something you can do often, to take charge of your career and create work that you love. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-12-04-take-charge-of-your-view Operational Excellence and digital collaboration: How digital business collaboration supports individual, team and organizational excellence In this workshop with Iris Stammberger, you will explore how an operational excellence framework is easier to implement when you have the ability to use digital business collaboration tools. They help monitor, report and control the information needed for improved collaboration and communication at work making visible what needs to be done to align all involved in the pursuit of operational excellence. We will explore the pros and cons of 7 digital collaboration IT tools that can contribute to help your team in the pursuit of operational excellence. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-11-16-operational-excellence-3 Facilitated Networking Night November 14, 2017, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
WEST and Alnylam Pharmaceuticals are partnering to offer a great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the local science and technology community. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-11-14-networking Developing Presence November 8, 2017, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Today's leaders need more than a great resume, they need Presence - the ability to connect, inspire and influence others at all levels. In this 90-minute workshop, Angie O'Donnell will describe three elements of Presence that apply to everyone, regardless of your role, that can easily be learned and refined. You'll leave with some tips and techniques for creating a positive first impression, enhancing your verbal presence, and being intentional about connecting with others. Learn to make a memorable connection without self-promoting. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-11-08-developing-presence Breakfast with Rockstars Are you looking for an opportunity to network and hobnob with local senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Yvonne Greenstreet and Laurie Keating. They will share learnings from women in the C-suite and serving on Boards. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-10-26-breakfast Leading with Mindfulness: Strategies for Stress Resilience in Business Environment This hands on, interactive session led by Sarah Stuart, CEO and top mindfulness instructor at Really Mindful Group, is equally appropriate for beginners to mindfulness-based resilience strategies and for experienced practitioners. Participants will come away with a clear understanding of what mindfulness is, the breadth of scientific research supporting it and how various techniques can be used to help navigate and lead through change and stress. The workshop will include several short, guided mindfulness practices and interactive exercises that can be used at work and in everyday life. Participants will leave the session with simple, clear take aways that they can start to experiment with in the laboratory of their lives the moment they leave the session. The workshop will be followed by a panel discussion with senior leaders sharing how they put mindfulness skills into practice. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-10-25-mindfulness Towards Operational Excellence: Selecting the areas that will deliver the biggest payouts and motivate your team.
Is your team operating at its best? Do you have a systematic way of evaluating progress towards goals and removing the various impediments your team faces? Is your team delivering the best service or product quality at the right cost? The concept of operational excellence is a guiding philosophy which requires teams and organizations strive to achieve excellence in all aspects of its operations, adding value at every step. It offers a series of tools and methods that can help efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability. It makes visible key performance indicators and what needs to be done to support performance. Sometimes implementing an operational excellence framework clash with people's resistance to change behaviors. A good strategy to support behavioral changes in your team is to start small, i.e. choosing a visible but smaller challenge where positive results will serve to showcase the benefits of implementing an operational excellence framework. In this workshop, you will learn a step by step methodology to carve out of a complex situation the real project that will deliver visible results and help your team embrace an operational excellence framework. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-10-19-operational-excellence-2 Career Paths and Working in Industry This event has reached capacity and we will no longer be taking registrations. Biogen's WIN group is offering roundtable discussions with women from various areas of Biogen. They will be talking to female grad students and post-docs about their career paths and decision to work in industry. This event will be limited to the first 30 to register. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-10-18-career-paths The Financial Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurship for Women Panel Discussion
In May, WEST & Ellevate joined together with a handful of female entrepreneurs to share perspectives and experiences starting a new company and leveraging skills (i.e. finance, technology & marketing) to assist others with an entrepreneurial endeavor. Now, the two networking organizations are partnering for a follow-up conversation in which entrepreneurs will share insights into the financial successes and challenges of starting and scaling a business.
Topics to include:
More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-10-17-entrepreneurship-panel Navigating Your Career Goals when Your Boss Works Elsewhere
Technology and globalization have changed how teams work together. Gone are the days when everyone sits in the same location within sight of each other. Remote work, virtual teams and flexible work arrangements have enable teams from different geographies to come together in new and innovative ways. As an ambitious professional, this provides challenges when your boss and/or colleagues are situated elsewhere. How do you advance your career path? How do you make decision-makers aware of your professional value so you can advance in your organization? How do you navigate difficult conversations when misunderstandings occur? How do you create a visible, influential presence when you aren’t in the room? This session is designed to provide the participants with practical proven skills for positively elevating their professional visibility for career advancement. During the session participants will practice remote work techniques for effectively communicating their professional value; establishing a strong professional reputation and developing/maintaining critical stakeholder relationships over distance. In addition, participants will learn techniques for setting appropriate boundaries with key stakeholders for greater personal/professional health and satisfaction. Operational Excellence for Team Performance: The tools and methods of operational excellence
Is your team operating at its best? Do you have a systematic way of evaluating progress towards goals and removing the various impediments your team faces? Is your team delivering the best service or product quality at the right cost? The concept of operational excellence is a guiding philosophy which requires teams and organizations strive to achieve excellence in all aspects of its operations, adding value at every step. It offers a series of tools and methods that can help efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability. It makes visible key performance indicators and what needs to be done to support performance. You will learn about various operational excellence frameworks and how you can create and implement your own using proven techniques and methods. Specifically, you will leave with 10 tools to make your team more effective that you can start using immediately after this workshop led by Iris Stammberger. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-09-14-operational-excellence-1 Breakfast with Rockstars Are you looking for an opportunity to network and hobnob with local senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Deb Vernon and Sandra Glucksmann. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-09-13-breakfast Expand the Lean-In Conversation with Jill Ebstein Have you ever sat around with your friends and colleagues and discussed "Lean in"? Do you feel the conversation needs to be expanded to include those who aren't going on the autobahn full speed ahead? If so, then you will enjoy an evening with Jill Ebstein, author of At My Pace: Ordinary Women Tell Their Extraordinary Stories. Jill spoke with 36 women, ranging from their 30s to their 80s, who were going at a different pace. The stories these women share are short and packed with punch. Just like cover indicates, the goal is blue sky and open roads. This book helps us understand how women went from discovering their way to celebrating their choices, what they learned along the way and the new 3 Rs that can help guide us. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-08-09-at-my-pace Breakfast with Rockstars Are you looking for an opportunity to network and hobnob with local senior leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs and Chesley Chen, CEO of Safety Partners, Inc. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-07-27-breakfast Annual Networking Night WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-07-12-networking-night Annual Leadership and Women of the Future Awards Our exposure to great role models and sponsors can substantially influence how our careers grow and develop. Please join us for an evening to honor three inspirational established women leaders who have made their mark, and to recognize and celebrate outstanding women from the next generation. Be inspired, network, and support the career advancement of women in science and technology! Leadership Awardees
Karen Anderson, SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-06-28-women-of-the-future Successful Communication - How to Build Your Skill in Handling Challenging Conversations June 27, 2017, 6:00 - 8:30 PM Do you notice a sense of discomfort or even dread when you know you have a difficult conversation that needs to happen? Do you leave these conversations feeling less than resolved or understood, or question whether anything will change as a result? In this workshop you will bring your own challenging conversation and work with it using a model, specific steps, and practice in effectively preparing for and engaging in your conversation. We will talk about the ladder of inference and the power of assumptions and then use a 5 step process to prepare for any challenging conversation. Come join Sue Williamson and build skill and confidence in your abilities to be successful communicators in often emotional scenarios. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-06-27-challenging-conversations Advanced Communication Coaching - Networking to Business & Public Presentations “You can improve your value by 50 percent just by learning communication skills--public speaking:” – Warren Buffett Every business leader agrees on the importance of communications. Improve yours. Join us to develop your communications skills. Learn all the important aspects of developing, practicing, delivering, and self-evaluating your presentations. Too many call their slides “The Presentation”. Many even build slide decks, filling in various details and data before focusing on the audience, what you want the audience to do, and what you want them to remember. The solution is easy; it will save you time, and raise your stature, but it’s not for the faint of heart because you can’t read your PowerPoint slides. It will give you the opportunity to have your audience leave the room thinking, if not saying, “Wow, that was good”.Tom Kennedy will cover - Preparation
- Audience, Result, Message
- It’s about them, not you.
- You have to know what you want them to do.
- Know your message in a sentence or two.
- Introduction/Conclusion the bookends of your presentation.
- Main themes, no more than three.
- Rehearsal - Yes you have to, and the more important the talk the more important the rehearsal.
- Evaluation of your strengths and weaknesses, we all have them. Participants will be video taped giving a short presentation, which they will receive feedback on. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-06-13-presentation-skills Everyone Communicates, Few Connect – Communicating and Leading for Results When we have an idea, the first thing we do is communicate it. When we need help from others, the first thing we do is ask. There is a step between our idea and desires and communicating them. That missing link is connection. Ever wonder why some people seem to move forward in their careers while others seem stuck? Why no one seems to think your great idea will work? Why your team members don't seem to be paying attention? Why your team is not inspired and engaged? It is because people aren't connecting when they communicate and lead. Everyone talks, but talk is cheap and only yields limited results. Communication goes beyond techniques, body language, tone of voice and other mechanical methods. Learn the strategies from Kemi Sorinmade to grow into a leader that can connect with others so that you can communicate in a way that gets your message across, inspires action from others and helps you achieve better results. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-06-06-communication Entrepreneurship: Building teams and bridging the gap between technology, finance, and marketing Come join us for a combined WEST/Ellevate panel event, “Entrepreneurship: building teams and bridging the gap between technology, finance, and marketing.” This talented and experienced panel of women will discuss their perspectives and experiences as it relates to starting a new company or leveraging their skills to assist others with an entrepreneurial endeavor. Come hear the stories of this experienced panel and engage in discussion to learn how they got involved in start-up companies and how you might explore this world. Panel members: - Jill Balis, Chief Marketing Officer, The Grommet More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-05-31-entrepreneurship A Roadmap for Women Leaders to Be Bold: Strategies and Techniques to Rise Off The Sticky Floor Leadership expert, Rebecca Shambaugh will present a roadmap for achieving greater gender equality that includes action items for the organization, the leadership, and for women. She will share her perspective and experiences on what are the institutional and personal implications of today’s gender transformations, and what can we learn from their ongoing successes and failures. Rebecca will also present her compelling vision that reinforces why this is the time for women to take the lead – to bring about the change that is needed. She will inspire women to be bold and tap into their natural strengths, style, and thinking to help organizations grow and maintain their competitive advantage in the years ahead. Rebecca will provide her company’s research and relevant stories of how she and her organization have coached hundreds of women off the ‘sticky floors’ of organizational resistance. Sticky floors are self-limiting beliefs, assumptions, and behaviors that unknowingly sabotage women’s confidence and ability to achieve their career goals and aspirations. Some of these sticky floors include, perfectionism, not having strategic and supportive relationships, shying away from having difficult conversations, failure to speak up and gain the credibility they deserve, or not asking for what they want. Attendees will walk away with a greater awareness of their sticky floors along with a practical toolkit for exploring new avenues that will open up doors and create pathways for bolstering their confidence and reaching their greatest potential. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-05-23-women-leaders Tips for Maximizing the Value of Your Compensation and Benefits Package In today’s competitive market for talent, many employers are offering attractive compensation and benefits packages. In addition to salary, bonus, and equity compensation, “softer” benefits like expanded maternity leave, flexible schedules, and wellness programs are becoming more common. In this program, financial advisor Beata Dragovics provides tips to help ensure you take full advantage of your employee compensation and benefits. This includes:
More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-05-18-wealth-management Key Leadership Skills for Success in the Technological World Listen to the inspiring journeys of successful senior women and men in science and technology as they talk about their pathways to success. Highlights will include details on their paths, obstacles they overcame, things that helped them along the way, and tips and strategies that can also work for you. This is a great opportunity for you to network with the movers and shakers in the science and technology community and support the career advancement of women in STEM!
More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-05-17-Success-Panel Breakfast with Rockstars Are you looking for an opportunity to network and hobnob with local senior women leaders? If so, this is THE event for you. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by lots of conversation with Meredith Fisher, Partner at the Partners Innovation Fund and Jo Viney, Co-founder and CSO at a new startup biotech company. Registration is for WEST MEMBERS ONLY and will be limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an intimate experience. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-05-04-breakfast The Choice is Yours: Tools for Transforming Your Career and Life
All of these are examples of not living fully in your power. Kimberly Napier, Certified Life and Executive Coach, will reveal how the power of choice can be transformative in creating an empowered life and career – a life based on your terms. Through real-life examples, up to date research, mindful techniques and practical exercises, you will begin to recognize and bypass what holds you back. You will begin the process of trusting yourself and your own knowledge to make choices that serve YOU– no more waiting for permission or seeking approval from others.
More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-04-12-choice Overcoming the Two Biggest Impediments for Successfully Working Globally The fact of globalization affects all of us, daily. This is especially true for men and women working in science and technology, two of the economic engines of the 21st century economy. Companies operate globally, drawing on the talent and innovative thinking particular to a country or region. If there ever was an ‘age of ideas’, we’re living it! Progress, however, is often stalled, or, worse, halted, because the human element of technological advances hasn’t as yet caught up. Collaborating with colleagues who have experienced the world differently as they grew up or whose professional lenses see a problem differently than us often causes conflict. When we work virtually, as we often do in global project teams, as one example, we find it difficult to establish trust with our co-workers. Social distance is increased as there are no opportunities to ‘chat around the watercooler’ or have lunch together in the canteen. How do we cope with difference and learn to respond, with cultural and emotional intelligence, rather than ‘react’ to what we perceive are threats? This interactive workshop with Marion Estienne, Ph.D. focuses on two such impediments to successful collaboration: functional and cultural differences. We will explore function by considering thinking preferences and how they determine different styles of decision-making, communication, and leadership. We will then look at some cultural components which directly impair trust between and among people from different countries. Finally, once we understand the origins of the potential for conflict, we will look at some tools and techniques which can help us be more successful when dealing with difference. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-04-04-working-globally Lunch, Laugh, and Bust the Bad Moms Myth Women have been told for so long what a “good mom” is that many of us believe it, on some level, deep down, even though we know there are multiple ways to be an effective parent. We live with lingering guilt for not being that "traditional mom" and sometimes make decisions based on those beliefs and biases, rather than reason. Come join us to learn from, collaborate with, be inspired by, support, and be enlightened by the “Bad Moms.” Jodi Detjen, co-author of The Orange Line: A Woman’s Guide to Integrating Career, Life and Family, will present the findings of her research on work-life balance. Jodi is a professor of management at Suffolk University since 1999. She conducts workshops, talks and consults on the principles from the book in her firm Orange Grove Consulting. Jodi has been helping organizations develop their leaders for over 25 years. She teaches, consults and writes in areas of leadership development, systemic and organization change management, and how women can realize their power. After Jodi’s interactive presentation, we will open up to a roundtable discussion where we share our stories of how we broke the mold and effectively parented despite being “Bad Moms,” in a judgment-free zone. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-03-30-bad-mom-myth Negotiating Your Compensation Package: Financial Strategies for Professional Transitions Are you planning a career change? Thinking of jumping to a competitor? Has a recruiter contacted you about a new job opportunity? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you will need to have a strategy in place to negotiate the best possible compensation package for yourself. Unfortunately, research has shown that women are far less likely to negotiate for higher pay, which may be contributing to the gender pay gap. In this program, financial advisor Beata Dragovics provides an overview of the current compensation landscape within the life sciences industry, along with key considerations before changing jobs. Among the topics to be discussed:
More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-03-23-wealth-management Career Possibilities and Speed Networking Night Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by people who have used their science and technical training to advance their careers in different directions? Join us for WEST’s Annual Career Possibilities Event. The evening will start with facilitated networking, so you can meet the other attendees and panelists. This will be followed by a panel discussion to learn more about each panelist and their key lessons learned. Then you will have the opportunity to break into small groups and talk with the different panelists. The 3 Keys to Achieving Your Unique Definition of Success for More Prosperity, Joy, and Ease Are you a leader, expert, educator, consultant, or other creative professional who delivers services based on your knowledge and know-how? Can you remember the last time you didn’t feel overwhelmed, exhausted or depleted? Can you recall a recent time when you were not multi-tasking? How often do you wish you could clone yourself or find another hour in the day? You have a mere 168 hours to live each week. You always have more to do than time available. So you spend your precious energy doing, doing, and doing even more, trying to be a responsible parent, friend and community member, while also succeeding at work. Despite all this doing you feel powerless to stop the crushing deluge of obligations and responsibilities. You often feel drained, frustrated, loathe to admit you can’t do it all, and resentful for feeling like you have to. If this description resonates with you, you are not alone. Many talented women are underperforming as a result of their valiant attempts to outperform. Debra gives you the 3 keys you must have to change all this. With her proven formula, you can prosper with joy and ease. Throughout this talk, Debra Woog teaches you to strengthen your communications (both intrapersonal and interpersonal) and celebrate your enoughness rather than chase accomplishments that feel less than profoundly meaningful. You learn to achieve the goals aligned with your unique definition of success and support others to achieve theirs. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-03-08-success Learning How to be an Effective Negotiator Negotiation skills are required of all professionals. In fact, you use these skills in many phases of both your work and personal life. This session will focus on negotiation strategies to help you achieve better outcomes. We will discuss how to effectively prepare for a negotiation, think on your feet and deal with conflict. This session will be an interactive discussion with Lisa Haddad and exercises to hone your negotiation skills. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-02-08-negotiation 9th Annual Giving Back Awards January 25, 2017, 6:00 - 9:00 PM Meet the extraordinary and inspiring women being honored and hear the stories of how they have made a profound impact on society. The honorees are role models who balance job and personal responsibilities while making a difference in their community. Join us to congratulate them, be inspired, network, and support the career advancement of women in the enterprise of science and technology! Local companies in STEM nominated the women we will be celebrating this year. We received a large number of applications and will recognize many amazing women. We will also honor WEST volunteers and supporters whose dedication and outreach efforts have helped us reach our strategic goals. Appetizers, wine, and dessert will be served. Whether shopping for your family, friends, home, or office, there is something for everyone at this year's Silent Auction Fundraiser – a plethora of wonderful and interesting items and services for sale from generous donors around the region! Proceeds will benefit our WEST mission, programs, and operations – to provide high quality and affordable educational content and development opportunities (workshops/events) for all women in STEM careers. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-01-25-9th-annual-giving-back-awards Tips for Incorporating Equity Compensation into Your Overall Financial Plan Today, more women are advancing to senior positions within the life sciences industry. Along with added responsibilities, senior executives usually receive stock options or other forms of equity compensation as part of their compensation packages. In this program, financial advisor Beata Dragovics provides an overview of the various forms of equity compensation, along with current compensation trends within the life sciences industry. Attendees will learn how to optimize their equity compensation packages, with a particular focus on managing concentrated wealth. Other topics include the tax ramifications of exercising stock options, along with tactics for treating equity compensation as a vital piece of your overall financial plan. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-01-19-wealth-management Swipe right.. into your DREAM Career!! January 11, 2017, 6:00 - 8:30 PM If your resume was a dating profile, would you hire yourself compared to all the others? Developing your resume and interview skills are crucial to your future career success. An interview is a blind date where you only get one chance to show why you are a perfect match. Are you putting enough time and effort into preparing for the big interview date? This presentation and workshop will focus on these two key factors and incorporating how to be yourself and exactly what the hiring company needs. Areas of focus will include: formatting your resume, addressing career transitions, applying for the right position, connecting with your interviewer, and confidently navigating the interview process. You will not land an epic job without epic preparation. Eva Quinn has reviewed over 3000 resumes this year and looks forward to sharing 10 years of hiring management experience with you. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2017-01-11-resume-interview 2016
Career Possibilities and Speed Networking Night Do you want to define your value proposition, explore career possibilities, and be inspired by people who have used their science and technical training to advance their careers in different directions? Join us for WEST’s Annual Career Possibilities Event. The evening will start with facilitated networking, so you can meet the other attendees and panelists. This will be followed by a panel discussion to learn more about each panelist and their key lessons learned. Then you will have the opportunity to break into small groups and talk with the different panelists. Panelists include: More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-12-07-career-possibilities Pathways to Leadership Success: Working Towards Gender Balance Join us for an exciting evening of discussion between senior men and women from diverse sectors of science and technology. These eminent leaders will describe their personal journey to success, and will share their thoughts on progress to closing the gender gap. This event, cohosted by WEST, Xconomy, and Biogen, promises to be a great opportunity to network with movers and shakers in the science and technology communities whilst supporting career advancement for women. Panelists: Moderators: More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-11-14-Panel Team Leadership - Developing, Mentoring and Coaching Your Team Leadership skills and competencies are required of most professionals at all levels in today's competitive marketplace. The ability to bring out talent in others and unleash their utmost potential is what great leaders do. The focus of this discussion will include practices, principles and behaviors that result in effective team leadership creating an environment of trust and ultimately collaboration. This will be an interactive dialogue where participants will be introduced to methodologies that are valuable aspects of team leadership including developmental coaching, mentoring and action planning. This workshop will be lead by Rita Balian Allen. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-11-10-leadership Making Financial Decision with a Purpose: How to make smart, value based decisions with your money Please come and join us for this financial planning presentation with a twist. We will have an interactive session about how to align your personal values with your financial goals. For those who desire to be the best they can be in the various roles they have in life, living in alignment is critical. Living in alignment is about aligning one’s “real" behaviors with one’s “ideal" values. It is both as simple and as difficult as that! By recognizing what values are truly most important to us we can determine the role they may or may not be playing in decision making regarding our finances. When you begin with this step, you can make all your financial decisions “with a purpose.” Adopting this approach, your comprehensive financial plan will be based on desired long-term goals and will not be affected by short term noise.Once our session is complete you will have detailed information needed to make informed decisions and to create a financial planning checklist that can help you stay on track with your finances. This workshop will be led by Beata Dragovics. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-10-26-financial-planning Power in the Middle: How to Make the Most of being a Middle Manager Life in the middle isn't easy. It's pressure from above and stress from below. It's doing the job while also making sure other people do the job. It's managing without management training, leading without executive coaching, and successfully implementing strategy without enough information about the bigger picture. Yet more than anyone else, the middle manager is responsible for getting the organization's day-to-day work done. In American organizations, middle managers directly supervise nearly 80% of the workforce. They are the ones who engage, motivate, and direct all the programmers, engineers, bench scientists, customer service reps, equipment operators, administrative staff, paralegals, clerks, designers, tech support people, analysts, line workers, line supervisors--everyone who is responsible for carrying out strategy on the ground. If all these people are going to be consistently high performers, their managers have to know how to help them get there. In this interactive workshop with Beth Shapiro and Etta Jacobs, we’ll explore how to lead from the middle: communication skills, relationship building strategies, and behaviors that help you have influence. You’ll come away with specific tools you can put to use right away to be more effective and impactful at work. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-10-13-management Making Work Visible: How to Turn Great Strategy into Great Performance Improve your team's and organizational capabilities to deliver on targets by increasing transparency, accountability and commitment to change! At the “Making Work Visible”, seminar you will learn proven workable tools to give visibility to processes and interdependencies, the knowledge to adjust them to serve your teams' unique needs, and a step-by-step research-based strategy execution methodology. This is a highly interactive experience focused on helping organizations deliver on targets by tailoring their own set of proven visual artifacts. Using examples from different industries (healthcare, manufacturing, military operations, business decision-making, etc.) you will learn about the principles that make them effective. Then you will discuss how to tailor some of these visual artifacts to your unique needs. You will leave with action items that will improve your organization. Making work visible through the use of visual aids has demonstrated to help improve organizational performance and support the implementation of new initiatives. Well designed business performance dashboards, checklists, tasks boards, decision-logs, and other visual aids or artifacts, suggest what to do, increase the likelihood of insights, and minimize the possibility of faulty decision- making. They are precise and prescriptive because they organize information, communication, thinking and action. They minimize the impact of faulty memory, unread emails, misunderstood conversations, cluttered memos, personal quirks, parallel agendas, and attention overload. When integrated as part of a comprehensive methodology for decision-making in complex work, they help increase efficiency, effectiveness, and adaptability. They are a powerful tool for strategy execution that executive teams can use and then scale to the rest of the organization. This workshop will be led by Iris Stammberger. More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-10-06-making-work-visible Pathway to Success Senior Panel Discussion Listen to the inspiring journeys of successful senior women and men in science and technology as they talk about their pathways to success. Highlights will include details on their paths, obstacles they overcame, things that helped them along the way, and tips and strategies that can also work for you. This is a great opportunity for you to network with the movers and shakers in the science and technology community and support the career advancement of women in STEM! Panelists include: More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-09-22-pathway-to-success Influence Without Authority Workshop & Panel Discussion Do you need others to get things done, but they don’t report to you? The truth is that even when you do have “power”, you are often better off using influence first. The most effective individual contributors, managers, and executives use influence skills to achieve results, regardless of their positional power within the organization. Attending this interactive workshop will provide you with key insights into how to get things done whether or not you are in charge. Influence skills can improve your ability to manage “up”, get agreement from peers, and motivate others. It will enable you to work more effectively in project and cross-functional teams, collaborations, and matrixed organizations. This workshop will be led by Gwen Acton. Learning Objectives - Gain insight into why people do (or don’t do) things you want them to do Leadership Strategies to Advance Your Career Sandra Glucksmann, WEST Board Chair and COO at Editas Medicine, will share stories of her career challenges and success. She will discuss how to best apply your scientific and analytical abilities to develop influence and negotiation skills. Sandra will share her learning experiences as she transitioned from bench scientist to manager, and from manager to executive in both small and large company settings. She will touch on the following topics: - Understanding the difference between leadership and management More Info: http://www.westorg.org/2016-09-07-leadership ANNUAL NETWORKING NIGHT WITH CROSS-CULTURAL COMMUNICATION AND UNDERSTANDING WEST’s Annual Networking Night is great opportunity to meet and mingle with like-minded STEM professionals. Participate in facilitated networking activities designed to engage you with the wonderful women in the WEST community. Members of WEST come from a wide variety of countries and cultures. Come and celebrate our rich diversity, learn more about cross-cultural communication, and enjoy facilitated networking under the guidance of Principal of GTL Coaching & Consulting and WEST Board Member, Ali Farquhar. From your first interviews to leading an organization your communication skills are a, if not the, key to your success. One of the most popular WEST workshops - Tom Kennedy and Beth Masterman will cover all the important aspects of developing, practicing, delivering, and self-evaluating, your most important communications, from meetings to large conferences and video. Additionally, the level 1-3 listening skills which will enable you to stay focused, especially on your audience, or key audiences, to insure success. You will learn message focus, dealing with your nervousness, how to prepare for interviews, how to present “up” in your organization, and how to turn down the noise and really understand what the other person or audience is saying. Listening is a skill and only half of the communication equation. In conversations both parties speak and both parties listen. How you listen, what you say, how you say it, and when you say it impact whether your message hits its target and whether you get the results you seek. It all starts with listening. OCT22 Coaching Circles - SOLD OUT Coaching circles adapt the principles and methods of individual coaching and apply them to small, intentional groups. They set the stage for peer to peer coaching facilitated by trained and qualified professional coaches offering women a supportive and motivating environment to connect through meaningful conversations. Participants develop a set of peer coaching skills in addition to benefiting from professional coaching, and are often preferred by people who learn well in small groups. Join us for three 30 minute sessions, to establish new relationships, enhance leadership skills and talents, and develop in an area that is a current challenge. Location: Zoom |
