I first heard about peer coaching during an Employee Resource Group (ERG) book club that I joined earlier this year. It popped up in our summer book selection How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back From Your Next Raise, Promotion, or Job, by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith. I was instantly intrigued. …
Many of us work in or for companies that are proud of their vision, mission and values statements — they are the guiding principles for making decisions and steering the future of our businesses. Can we apply these same thoughts and guidance in our personal lives and career? First, what do these words mean? There …
After receiving the Emerging Leader Award from the OWA last year, I had many people reach out, asking me what I did to get to where I am today. As a girl with a slew of labels — ADHD, adopted, bi-racial, and learning disabled — most people are surprised to see how far I’ve come; …
Merriam-Webster defines introverts as those who are typically reserved, quiet, introspective, and enjoy spending time alone. Extroverts, according to Merriam-Webster, are talkative, open, and seek frequent social interactions. There are also some people who are quiet, viewed as aloof, require alone time to recharge, yet are extroverted with people they are close to and trust. …
An Introvert’s Survival Guide In An Extroverted Workplace Read More »
My favorite movie always has and will be Fried Green Tomatoes (queue a future Food For Thought night?). I admit that at 11 years old, I didn’t grasp what Evelyn Couch meant when she frantically claimed, “I’m too old to be young and too young to be old!” But I think I’m starting to get …
Mentoring is an essential part of personal and professional development. It’s a relationship in which an experienced and knowledgeable person guides and supports another person in their growth and development. Mentoring can provide valuable insights, knowledge, and support that can help you succeed in your career. Finding the right mentor for yourself can be challenging, …
Mentorship 101: Asking, Understanding, and Doing Read More »
Each year, OWA members get to choose one book from the curated selection as benefit of their membership. Not only is this is one of the most valued OWA member benefits, but we also learn which books industry leaders are reading and recommending. Balancing professional development and growth is important to your continued career success. …
As I consider what fosters and what inhibits my professional growth, one thing that consistently provides value is learning from others. Entrepreneurs learn by doing, and their experiences are unique and invaluable. As someone who values both learning and sharing, I decided to see what professional expertise I might gather to share with the awe-inspiring …
Last year, I became a frame rep and a common issue that I hear from offices that I visit is the need to find and keep employees on their team. I have spoken to several of my fellow colleagues and others that I know in the optical industry, and they have shared the same complaints. …
Since 1997, the OWA has set the standard in the optical industry by intentionally connecting, inspiring, and leading women in their professional and personal development. With a mindset of inclusion and acceptance, the OWA actively welcomes all women in optical to become members and to take part in the creation of, and participation in, our …
