Perception:  offering input, feedback, suggestions, and/or direction to the person responsible for your career well-being can be scary.  Afterall, likely every one of us has somebody that oversees our work, who is expected to keep us focused, and who has responsibility for maximizing our output for business results.  Some may refer to this person as their leader, manager, boss, or perhaps coach.  Reality:  they too are a human who also has someone directing and inspecting their output.  In this people chain of responsibility and accountability, each member has the opportunity to bring something meaningful to the relationship party.  Why then is it so very challenging to provide perspective and/or inquire about guiding actions that could make a difference?  Perhaps a few of these may be good conversation openers to a more dynamic, detailed and directional meeting with your leader: It would be really helpful if you could explain…again. Could we walk through that report together, so I can better understand… I do best when you share your screen (or sit with me); could we look at…as a reference? Last time I did…It didn’t land well.  I’d like to show you, so you can weigh in. I am genuinely giving it my all, but I am not satisfied with my outcome; do you think I need more training on...? Can you provide some examples of ways I could improve my… I’d like your input about an issue I am having; can we walk through…together? When you do…, how do you approach it? What is one way that I could practice…best? Candidly, it likely comes down to a few factors that hold us back from effectively managing our manager to yield our best success.  Below are some areas that may trip up progress for even the most established working duo: Has a trusting relationship been established in the first place?  It can feel daring to seek permission, but most likely, all that is necessary is to inquire if you can bring ideas to the leader’s attention.  Relationships are built by establishing consistent rapport, demonstrating trustworthiness and even in the toughest moments operating with integrity. Is there a standing window of time when work can be reviewed constructively?  If someone has to interrupt the workday and create an event to provide feedback, there is already a barrier imposed.  Work on setting up a standing1-1 meeting that is accompanied by an agenda. Send the agenda in advance so everyone knows what will be brought up.  Having a standing time together ensures the meeting becomes a valuable ritual instead of a burden. Has the leader been deemed credible?  Do you believe their input would be valuable in the first place? If your coach is someone who has great wisdom and needs to be coaxed to comment or share it, let them know you noticed their acumen. Communicating what expertise or experience you believe they possess is a huge compliment.  By observing that and letting them know it matters, you are reinforcing your interest in hearing more. Are you doing your homework? Coming ready to each meeting with well thought-out questions, challenging situations, and scenarios to unpackage is the very best way to get insight and maximize your joint time.  Using real or planned-for examples will make any feedback tangible and easy to call upon for applied learning.  Afterwards, follow-up to let your leader know how the scenario or plan turned out IRL. Do you offer compliments and appreciation? We respond to positive affirmations and if you want more of what you are seeing, the best way is to call it out. Take a few moments to send a thank you note for their time or to mention in a meeting that a recent feedback call led to a big win. We fuel more productive conversations if we refer back to ones that were impactful and made a difference. Are you a good citizen and helpful contributor?  Do you make it easy to receive feedback or are you prone to get defensive? If there is unnecessary friction, excuse-making, or drama when opportunities for improvement are raised, then your leader may be hesitant to bring it to your attention. Take a personal inventory of what your reactions resemble to ensure you are encouraging a repeat performance.  Your coach may be reluctant to deliver certain messages if they anticipate that you will be “hot” and resistant to hearing it. Is there a pervasive atmosphere of finger-pointing? If you are in a culture or within a department that is notorious for passing blame or not tolerating mistakes, it may not realistically feel safe for either party to share genuine feedback without fear of retaliation.  In that scenario there really needs to be an evaluation if the hurdle imposed relates to the leader or the overall climate of the organization. Extra foundational work may be needed upfront before true candor can be expressed. Are you testing the waters with smaller, less impactful topics? Perhaps consider a trial run with a minor idea that you would like to run by them.  Some topics are more emotionally charged, and you want your leader to feel favorable about commenting.  Calling their attention to how much you value their input and how it has had a lasting effect in the past may open the door to safely offering future feedback. Do you read the temperature before soliciting input? Observe body language for cues that the person is in a reasonably neutral state and that they have sufficient time to not be rushed.  If they are distracted or clearly already preoccupied, it may not be a healthy conversation window.  If we are asking our boss to disrupt their routine or to spend more time giving more direct suggestions, we need make sure they are not on a tight deadline or expected to be at a meeting right after — ask how much time is available upfront and solicit confirmation that now is good time to discuss or review X. Are you routinely demonstrating a willingness to be flexible and learning minded? By being an active learner, your leader will understand that you seek to keep growing, are interested in being challenged, and value chances to up your game.  Introduce new articles, podcasts, books into the discussion and be a great sharer of what you learn.  Reference circumstances where you tried new skills out and how you fared. This opens the door to more openness to try new things. Bonus: Is there congruence between what each party says they are going to do and actually doing it? We each need to demonstrate that our actions are carried out in a manner that is consistent with our intentions.  When someone is “all talk”, the willingness to invest time and resources fades fast.  However, a curious, effortful, and action-oriented learner is someone for whom any great coach is willing to stretch their own skills. We can yield the best version of our leaders if we set the stage for them to better support our career ambitions. In any relationship, the saying “you teach others how to treat you” is prime wisdom.  While they may be a rockstar at their duties, they realistically are not mind-readers; the key is to guide them on what you need with specificity (by example, using the Start, Stop, Go concept is a great way to frame the discussion).  Most likely, they believe you are getting what you need or do not realize that opportunities are being left on the table.  Bringing direct, supportive candor into the relationship and exploring the best use of time spent together can lead to fantastic feedback for career growth. Written by Jennifer Trakhtenberg

Whether it’s an email to colleagues or a comment on your sister’s cute first grader, writing is something we do in some form every day. Advances in technology including Artificial Intelligence (AI) have not replaced the human mind’s ability to amuse and teach people with written words. There are generally two camps here: those who like to write and those who find it as enjoyable as cleaning the bathroom toilet. If you enjoy writing and wonder how to get your words published, here are tips from a professional writer who’s been paid to write for almost every genre out there. Spoiler alert: This article is not for readers who want to be the next J.K. Rowling but rather focuses on informational copy for online and/or print genres — let’s get started! Step 1: Learn Your B2Bs and B2Cs A good starting point is establishing which type of content you think is the best fit for your ideas and writing style. Business to business (B2B) can help advance your career and establish you as an authoritative voice among colleagues. B2B copy lives in the trade world, and many trade magazines have online and print versions. An example of an article would be “Managing Inventory with an Uncertain Supply Chain.” Most (but not all) B2B trade platforms do not pay contributing writers but rely on your enthusiasm of having a byline and establishing yourself as an authority on a certain subject. Business to consumer (B2C) speaks from an established magazine or website to the consumer. B2C can also be B2B; health-related topics are a good example of articles that can speak to both audiences. An example would be “Why AR Coatings Are Important for Young Children.” B2C will often pay writers for copy but not an amount that will send you on a lavish shopping spree. Non-profit organizations are great starting point for new writers willing to volunteer their time and submit relevant copy pro-bono. Step 2: Just Start Writing! Once you’ve figured out where your writing belongs, it’s time to pick a topic you are enthusiastic about and start writing. Perhaps you’ve been thinking about a topic but haven’t sat down to write it yet. This is where most new writers stall. Just start typing what’s going through your mind and don’t worry about how it reads. Once you finish, let it sit for a few days and then come back to it again. Words and phrases that seemed golden a few days ago, might make you think, “what alien wrote that?” Now is the time to proofread and edit. Reading your copy out loud is a great method for spotting typos and awkward sentences. Step 3: Go Back to Grammar School  Okay, grammar may not be everyone’s favorite thing…who cares in the digital age? For editors, it matters because they will be the ones rolling their eyes and correcting your poor grammar. No matter how well you write, sloppy grammar will send a submission into the “thanks but no thanks pile.” If this makes you a bit anxious, there is a tiny book called Strunk and White, The Elements of Style  that is every good writer’s bible. There are also endless online sites using generative AI that do a decent job of finding spelling and grammatical errors — Grammarly is one of the most frequently used. Free grammar checkers are helpful but only do a surface review of your copy (spelling, punctuation, subject/verb agreement). For a deeper analysis of things like sentence structure and vocabulary enhancement, you’ll want to level up to a paid version. Step 4: Look for the Byline and Masthead There is a little secret within editors whether they are print or online; they need content because you cannot sell ads without it. When you’re online, look for the byline. Many authors will have a byline, a brief bio and an email address. If you have copy that you want to contribute, reach out to them for input. They may direct you to the right person to whom to pitch your idea. Trade and consumer magazines also have what’s known as a masthead  buried somewhere in the internal pages. The masthead includes the editorial team, contributors, and often a contact to submit articles or topic suggestions. Reach out because you have nothing to lose. Step 5: Be Concise and Expect Changes Like a painting, writing is an art, but a painter would never show a canvass with the expectation that someone would whip out a paint brush and change it. That is not the case with words. Expect that an editor will do what they do best—change, rearrange and sometimes re-write your prose because they know their readers better than you do. Sometimes you’ll get a proof where you can add your input but not always. Don’t go in with an expectation that every word is sacred. Also, don’t fall victim to being in love with your words. Too much of a good thing applies to writing. Don’t use unnecessary words and phrases that only strain the reader’s already limited attention span. “Exact same” means “same,” “close proximity” means “close,” “brief summary” means “summary.” Do We Need Writers in the Age of Generative AI? There’s no doubt that generative Artificial Intelligence is advancing exponentially. Platforms like Chat GPT scrape billions of words and turn them an articles, but if you’ve ever read AI-generated content (and you probably have), the copy often lacks human emotion, chronological sense and often clarity of voice. AI sites, however, are an excellent way to check for grammar and to get ideas on how to craft your copy. Generative AI will continue to evolve, but for now it is a useful tool that can make your existing copy sound more polished. Getting published is easier than you think, and most editors are open to accepting good copy that appeals to their audience. There’s an old saying that “you cannot edit a blank page,” so take that first big step and paint your canvass for the world to read. Written by M.A. Giorgio

The idea of building a personal brand, especially in a professional setting, can (and understandably so) feel overwhelming. I am here, however, to tell you that long gone are the days of personal brands being solely for celebrities, executives, and media personas. Together, let’s break down how identifying and establishing your brand can be exciting and valuable. 1. Identify Your Core Values Chances are that your organization is founded on a number of core values that they proudly adhere to and align themselves with — why should you be any different? Before you start marketing yourself like the latest iPhone, you need to know what really makes you  tick. What are your non-negotiables? What characteristics make you uniquely you? What about yourself do you take pride in? Contrary to that, what about yourself do you think is not the greatest and would want to leave out of your personal brand? I recommend taking time for “ me myself and I” , putting pen to paper, and listing your top values. Next, think about opportunities for those values to show up in your work. Do you value creativity? Maybe you’re the Picasso of presentations. Value reliability? Perhaps you’re the go-to person when others need to have someone whose got their back. Don’t forget about those around you — asking colleagues and mentors for their observations on your strengths can provide valuable perspectives. Regardless of the trait, if it’s your thing  it will help you craft a personal brand that’s authentic, effective, and maybe even a bit charming. 2. Align Yourself With the Right Opportunities Now that you’ve got a grip on your values, it’s time to align yourself with opportunities that showcase these qualities. I know plenty of us are uncomfortable with or unsure of how to advocate for ourselves, and that’s ok. However, if no one else knows about your strengths and accomplishments they can’t tell you how awesome of a job you did on that thing that was actually super important, but you didn’t want to come off as “braggy” about it. So, how do you make you  known? Seek out projects, roles, and even extracurricular activities that resonate with your core values. For example, if you value innovation, seek out roles that involve creative problem-solving or strategic planning. By living and exemplifying your values, your personal brand will evolve into a reflection of who you are, not just what you do. Another great way to get you  out there: network strategically. While this can, and likely will, include professional communities and gatherings, don’t underestimate the power of the water-cooler or the coffee-pot as a venue for putting that persona into action. For my WFH people out there, be sure to let yourself shine in those pre-meeting pleasantries or even on LinkedIn! Just be sure to tag all of the right people 😉     3. Enter Your Reputation Era…and Maintain it So, now that you’ve built your reputation, what are you going to do with it? Maintain it! Again, for those of us in the back – maintain it! Through consistent behaviors and actions, we build trust and reliability. When others can rely on you to be you , you’ve got yourself a reputation and a personal brand. Remember, building a personal brand in a professional setting isn’t about creating a fake persona or plastering a perpetual smile. It’s about identifying your core values, aligning yourself with opportunities that let those values shine, and maintaining your reputation with consistency and integrity. So go forth and brand yourself wisely — and remember, a little bit of you  can be a lot to be proud of.   Written by  Allie Glick

A divisive election is looming, and companies are debating how best to manage the potential distraction and stress of uncertain times with their employees and customers. As we learned during this year’s Vision Council Summit, which political party holds the Presidency does not make much difference on the overall economy, but it can have profound effects on people’s psyche.   If you work at a company like Ben and Jerry’s or Black Rifle Coffee, you know what type of political environment you have joined and align with the company’s values and point of view. But many companies try to remain neutral when it comes to taking political sides to not alienate both employees and customers.   As leaders in our organizations, how can we support our teams in a politically charged environment to keep everyone focused on work while encouraging engagement in democracy by voting and participating in localized activities that directly affect our communities?   In my personal life, I am active in political activities outside of work hours to advance certain political causes that I believe in, but as a leader of a diverse sales team I want to ensure everyone feels safe to come to work regardless of which political party they support, without fear of retribution. It can be difficult to keep your own views and feelings out of discussions, but you must lead your team by example and work to create a workplace culture that keeps politics outside.   Here are six tips to keep your team focused on work in a neutral environment as we enter the frenzy of November elections:   Do not post personal political views on LinkedIn and other social media sites that are work related. Employees who follow you on professional sites might feel that they cannot be their authentic selves if they disagree with your political views at work.  Set a good example by not making jokes about controversial topics and avoiding political discussions with subordinates, even if you share the same political beliefs. Have frequent meetings with your managers and check in with them to gauge the political temperature with their teams. Political views tend to be formed by firsthand experiences, so it is important to have empathy and understanding in highly charged conversations. But if you hear these conversations, firmly remind employees that they are off task, and these discussions belong outside of the workplace. Be careful in your communications regarding details about time off procedures for voting. Facts regarding absentee or early voting are fine but if there are benefits and rewards attached to voting, it could be construed as an effort to influence employee votes. Most companies have policies regarding lawful political activities in their employee handbook. Work with Human Resources to make sure these policies are clearly stated and applied to all employees. Be extra thoughtful and engaged with your team during the months prior and immediately after the November election. It can be a stressful time for everyone as people navigate personal, professional, and political issues.   Managing a diverse team is not easy but with clear guidelines and lots of empathy and patience you can navigate your organization through this turbulent election. I have also found that a healthy sense of humor gets me through the most challenging of times.   “Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.” - Plato   Written by Celeste Vos The views expressed in this blog are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

This year marks Vision Monday’s 22nd annual Most Influential Women in Optical report. The Vision Monday editors selected 40 women who are honored in five distinct categories: Executive Suite, Rising Stars, Mentors, Innovators and Above & Beyond. These are women who are continuing to shape the face of our industry from every angle; they are ECPs, executives, sales and marketing professionals, teachers and so much more. But above all, they are women who have had and continue to have profound impacts on the lives and careers of those around them. And they change our industry for the better while doing it... Read Vision Monday’s #MIWO2024 Report Check out these OWA members who are included in this year’s Vision Monday Most Influential Women in Optical report: Above and Beyond Women who have led the way in giving back to the industry, their patients, and their communities. Kristy Stone OWA Membership Committee Director of Member Education, PECAA Boca Raton, Florida "Use all experiences as learning opportunities to help you meet and exceed your personal and professional goals. Embrace change and challenges, they help you more than you think. Above all else, be happy in what you do, let pride and passion drive you.” Tammy Thurston Director of Customer Service, North America, EssilorLuxottica Northvale, New Jersey “Never stop seeking an opportunity to learn. Creating and being the best version of yourself is to ensure you are ready for all opportunities.” Bonnie Whitfield OWA Connection & Enrichment Committee Director, Member Services, The Vision Council Baker, Florida “I would advise other women who are trying to build their careers to remember that there will likely always be challenges to overcome. It’s important to never give up on your career goals. Additionally, always be willing to be a student. As an employee and a leader, you can always learn new things to improve, especially with rapid technological advancements.” Executive Suite Women who hold positions such as President, VP, CEO, CFO, CIO, or COO. Kayla Ashlee, ABOC OWA Digital Marketing Committee CEO and Co-Founder, Spexy Boise, Idaho “My biggest accomplishment is building a culture and team with a reputation for being real, honest, approachable and human. Our authenticity is what sets Spexy apart.” Becky Fritz VP, Practice Operations, VSP Ventures Rancho Cordova, California “When you do have a seat at the table or the ability to influence, be sure to make space for others to join. Pave the way for future female leaders because there is room for everyone, and teams are made better with diverse perspectives. Above all, be authentic—there is only one you!” Jennifer Trakhtenberg OWA Communications & Website Committee Chief People Officer, Co-Chief Operating Officer,ClearVision Optical Co, Inc. Hauppauge, New York “Every single day, I have the chance to share in people’s stories—helping them to be successful, to find a work home where they can thrive, and supporting leaders who genuinely serve others. I have the chance to direct meaningful actions to drive the success of moving our business forward.” Rising Stars Women who are ‘up-and-comers’ in their career and companies. Crystal Anthony, ABOC Sales Strategy & Planning Manager, Hilco Vision Kewanee, Illinois “Find a community that will push you past your comfort zone. Ask for opportunities and stretch roles—don’t wait for them to come to you.” Premilla Banwait, OD, MPH, FAAO VP of Clinical Programs, UnitedHealthcare Vison Minnetonka, Minnesota “I strive to use data, technology and innovation to develop clinical programs that can evolve with the changing times.” Cira Collins, ABOC, NCLEC, MPH OWA Membership Committee Account Executive, Lafont Portland, Oregon “You may suffer from many things, but do not suffer from a crisis of imagination. Fan the flames of what you could do or who you could be. We need you to play bigger than you currently are. And when you finally become the person you want to be, tap others on the shoulder and point them toward their better selves.” Melissa Parker Director of Plexus Operations, VSP Vision Rancho Cordova, California “When it comes to professional development, find a mentor who has a skill or a strength you want to develop. Then do what they do.” Mentors Women who are team builders and developers of talent. Mylene Emond Eastern Canada Sales Manager, WestGroupe Ville Saint-Laurent, Quebec “Stay informed about what’s happening in the industry, network, seek out tools like training, be confident, seize opportunities, be yourself and don’t be afraid to stand out. Shine!” Amanda Fruge VP Sales, Premium Fashion & Luxury, Central Region, EssilorLuxottica Houston, Texas “Seek and live your passion, approach everything with an open mind, and believe in yourself. Be open to new challenges, take the step forward when given the opportunity, and never stop learning.” Christina Jones Director of Retail Chains & Key Accounts ECP, Hoya Vision Care Lewisville, Texas “With all the industry knowledge I’ve gained in my 30-year career, now I get to pay that forward into the new talent on my team as a mentor to each of them.” Innovators Women who have initiated new products, programs, or ideas marking success. Kelly Cai, OD OWA Communications & Website Committee Co-Founder & COO, Barti Software, Inc. San Francisco, California “Transitioning from patient care to running a high growth software company in the industry has been exciting, challenging, and above all, a real joy.” Susan Shafer Director, Global Corporate Communications, VSP Vision Rancho Cordova, California “See an opportunity? Take it. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the skills or knowledge to be successful on day one. Instead, take all that worrisome energy, and: 1) apply it to learning what you ‘think’ you don’t know, 2) surround yourself with smart colleagues who empower you, and 3) focus on the possible right now, not everything that could be or might be.” Jennifer L. Stewart, OD OWA Membership Committee Founder, Look New Canaan New Canaan, Connecticut “Find EVERY opportunity you can to connect, engage, ask questions, learn and network. So often the optometric/optical field can be a lonely space—but the real magic happens when you connect with others… I’m honored and thankful for all the friends and connections I have in all parts of the optical industry. It has made me appreciate how many people are out there working to help us be successful. Lastly, don’t do something the same way because that is how it has always been done. Listen to your gut, think differently, and take a chance! You never know what the outcome will be.” Quotes and images from Vision Monday #MIWO2024

If you’re a working professional—if you’re a human—you’ve dealt with it. You poured hours into an application, tailored your resume and cover letter, and practiced what you’ll say in the car. Maybe you even bought a new outfit or pair of shoes to boost your confidence. You’ve moved seamlessly through each step of the interview process and developed a great rapport with the recruiter and hiring manager.   You’ve followed up with thank-you notes that include your excitement about the position, but it’s out of your control now. No amount of doomscrolling will ease your anxiety or calm the knot in your stomach. Will they just get this over with?   You’re hyper-focused on refreshing your inbox when suddenly the phone rings and you recognize the number. You curb your anxiety as you politely answer, knowing the person on the other end might share life-changing news. But their tone gives them away immediately and your stomach drops to your feet. You didn’t get the job.   The rest of the call was a blur. What happened? Didn’t they like you? Did you say or do something wrong? You were a perfect fit! Exhausted by the last eight weeks, you’re daunted by the task of starting over. What’s next?   Dos and Don’ts   Believe me, I can relate and have become an expert at managing job rejections. Being laid off twice in my 20s and playing “career catch-up” in my 30s taught me how to persevere and refocus on my goals.   DO take time to grieve. Rejection in any form is tough. Give yourself grace to feel your feelings and process the loss. DO use the experience as a growth opportunity. Consider it practice that will set you up to land your dream job. DO ask the recruiter or hiring manager for insight. Turn the situation into the chance to learn a new skill or get a certification. DON’T beat yourself up. Again, do not beat yourself up. You were likely one of dozens (if not hundreds) of job applicants. An interview invitation is a success! DON’T burn bridges with recruiters, hiring managers, or team members. They won’t reach out about future openings if you handle the rejection poorly. Many companies offer referral bonuses—give them a reason to keep you in mind. DON’T lose your ambition. When you’re ready, pick up where you left off and apply for jobs with a refreshed perspective. The more applications you submit, the more likely you are to get an offer.   Remind yourself that you will be OK, and you will get a job. Who knows—it just might be better than you imagined. Written by  Shawn Kramer

You know those people who enter a room, and you feel immediately drawn to them? Warmth and intentionality seem to radiate from them. While some may think this demeanor comes naturally (and for some, it does), more often it’s something that takes work. When ‘networking’, the first step to meaningful connection is forgetting that’s what you’re doing. Engaging with new people can feel daunting. Here are some tips to create genuine professional relationships for years to come. Ask Questions People most skilled at building bonds are also the most inquisitive. We all have traits, stories, skills, or unique experiences that make us interesting. When you find yourself in a room with strangers, think of it as an exciting opportunity to learn. If you find yourself drawing a blank, try these kick-starter questions to help get the conversation flowing: Where are you from? Did you always want to work in this field? If not, what did you see yourself doing instead? What’s the best part of your job? What does a typical week in your life look like? What do you like to do outside of work? This question is particularly important when seeking to forge deeper connections. Perhaps there is a shared hobby that would be enjoyable to talk more about; such as baking, hiking or going to concerts.   Word of advice – try not to think of what you could get out of a connection with people you speak with — that could make your demeanor feel unnatural or pushy. Instead, listen to understand, rather than respond. This will help the conversation flow feel more at ease and natural. Be Kind You may think the tip to ’be nice‘ is obvious and even cliche; however, many people aren’t aware of how they may come across. If people feel comfortable around you, they are far more likely to engage with you. Your body language can say more than words do. Do your best not to cross your arms and stand up straight — this will also help you feel more confident! Make eye contact with those around you and smile when it feels natural. Sometimes conversation can lead to people sharing vulnerable experiences, whether intentional or not. Empathy for those around you is one of the most important interpersonal skills you can develop. It sounds simple, but try to imagine yourself in their shoes. How would you want others to respond? How would you want someone to make you feel?   These tips are important not only for deepening your professional circle of contacts, but also your life outside of work. Enjoy years of newfound mentors, colleagues, and even friends when you prioritize thoughtfulness. Written by Alyssa Worley

Look beyond YouTube and discover free online resources to sharpen your skills and help your career Here’s an expression that digital marketers know well: “The best place to hide a dead body is on page two of Google.” The expression for YouTube is, “If you can’t find how to do it on YouTube, it’s not worth doing.” Neither of these axioms could be further from the truth and while streaming a video on how to fix a screen door or unclog a vacuum cleaner hose can be a “stress-saver,” this article is going to outline free resources and some not-so-free-resources that teach practical work skills as well as health and wellness tips to help advance your career and keep your mind and body healthy. Your Time, Your Terms The notion of “distance learning” has been around for decades; the University of Phoenix became the first school to offer a full portfolio of online college courses back in 1996. Correspondence courses were available by mail through the U.S. post office as early as the mid-1800s. This is nothing new; however, the proliferation of Wi-Fi back in the mid-2000s made online learning platforms increasingly popular because working learners could read, watch a video and study at their own pace. The following online platforms are some of the most popular, but there are many other similar ones. Courses range from fun topics like “learn how to juggle” to skill-building subjects like “mastering pivot charts in Excel.” One thing most of these platforms have in common, however, is a leveling up strategy where free courses are available once you enroll, and other courses are pay to play. Udemy.com  has been around since 2010 and offers instructors an easy way to develop a course and upload the course on their platform as videos, PowerPoints or PDFs. There are over 200,000 courses to choose from—over 10,000 courses on Microsoft Excel alone and over 7000 courses on yoga! Anyone can create a course that Udemy deems appropriate but instructors who want to charge a fee have to level up to a premium instructor. Udemy then takes a percentage of that fee. Choose Udemy for a wide offering of courses and topics, but not if you’re looking for accredited certifications or degrees, although certificates of completion are offered. Businesses, both large and small, often use Udemy for team-based training, but if you just want to test it out on your own, they do offer a 7-day free trial  and then plans that start at 20 dollars a month. Coursera  was founded in 2012 by Stanford University professors and is more focused on college-level courses to advance careers. Coursera aligns with universities and enterprise companies like Google or Meta to provide accredited certificates and graduate and post graduate degrees. Like Udemy, Coursera offers thousands of free courses, but premium lessons will either require a subscription or pay an upfront free. Coursera is a better option if you want to advance your career with skills and accreditations that can be impressive on a resume. Teachable.com  is an interesting online learning platform that allows creators (instructors) to design and upload their own courses ranging from defensive driving to how to mastering Google Ads. Subscription based with “free, good, better, best” levels, instructors can build their courses using the platform’s digital tools and then can promote their courses to students. Teachable is creator based, meaning it’s the platform to use if you want to teach and  their motto is “anything is teachable.” UUniversity.com is a an online platform for eye care professionals (ECPs) who want to expand their ophthalmic knowledge and dispensing skills. Completely free to all leaners who enroll, UUniversity™ has an extensive library of ABO (American Board of Optometry) and NCLE (National Contact Lens Examination) courses that leaners can choose from and take at their own pace. Courses include live webinars, like Acing the ABO, recorded videos from industry experts, and PDFs, and each course includes a quiz at the end with an 80% pass rate required. Eye care professionals can obtain their ABO certification and UUniversity will take care of all the digital paperwork. Is Online Learning Right for You? Online learning platforms offer busy working folks a chance to grow personally and professionally, and millions of learners have either earned degrees or advanced their knowledge and skills to help them become a more valuable employee or a more well-rounded person who knows how make a pivot chart or how to juggle. Understandably, these platforms need to “keep the lights on” and eventually have to (or hope to) gain a fee from instructors and learners. Like anything in life, taking that leap to learn something new will only happen if it’s important to you. One way to test the waters is to sign up for one free course or do a free trial, but then it’s up to you to find out what you want to learn and how much you want to grow. Written by M.A. Giorgio

Vision Expo West in Las Vegas is just around the corner! The OWA is hosting 2 events during the conference.  We welcome everyone to join us to network with your colleagues and learn more about what the OWA has to offer. Register Now for Vision Expo West! OWA Members can register for free plus receive 15% off education (excluding Total Office Packages) using this code: OWA24 . The OWA greatly appreciates its partnership with International Vision Expo, who generously provide space and numerous other considerations for our events. Connection Series Luncheon: Gentle Influence: Leadership in the Heart of Change Date: Thursday, September 19 Time: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM PST Location:  Venetian Level 3 — Murano, Room 3304 Join us at the Connection Series luncheon as we welcome guest speaker Amanda Shapiro . You'll discover new leadership strategies that build strong connections, boost resilience, and spark creativity in fast-changing environments. You'll learn how to make a positive difference in your organization and beyond, no matter what your role. Generously sponsored by VSP Vision , this insightful discussion will ensure that you walk away with helpful hints and practical tools to embrace your influence with empathy, mindfulness, and humility. Amanda Shapiro is a TEDx speaker known for her thoughtful insights on how we connect in times of crisis. As Vice President of Wholesale Marketing for Europa Eyewear, Amanda brings a wealth of experience and a passion for the optical industry, having been formally involved in optical since 2016, and informally since 2009 #familybusiness. Everyone is welcome, including non-members, but advance registration is required. Seating is limited, so sign up now! Registration Deadline: Monday, September 9, 2024 RSVP HERE   BID$ and BEVS Networking Event Date: Friday, September 20 Time:  5:30 PM - 7:00 PM PST Location: Venetian Level 3 — Murano, Room 3304 Enjoy hors d'oeuvres and cocktails while networking with friends! Back by popular demand is our online auction with mobile bidding, alongside our traditional raffle , offering designer items, travel packages, gift certificates, and much more. All proceeds go to Professional Development Programs. EyeMed Vision Care is proud to sponsor the evening's refreshments. Everyone is welcome, including non-members, but advance registration is required. Capacity is limited, so sign up now! Registration Deadline: Monday, September 9, 2024 RSVP HERE

Last month, we at Europa Eyewear were thrilled to host a special OWA regional event. Fourteen OWA members visited our factory for a first-hand look at how frames are made. The day was a perfect blend of education and networking, and it was an honor to open our doors and showcase the craftsmanship that goes into creating our AO Eyewear and STATE Optical Co. frames. A Warm Welcome and Stylish Surprises The day began with a light breakfast in the Europa showroom and a great chance for the OWA members, who traveled from across Chicagoland, to get to know each other. Europa CEO Scott Shapiro marked the special moment with a champagne toast and offered his heartfelt thanks to the OWA for their commitment to the optical industry and for being amazing advocates for independent and American-made eyewear. Next, each woman was personally styled in a complimentary Europa frame by Europa Director of Sales Kathleen Crowley, as a token of thanks for taking time out of their busy schedules to commit to continuing education. A Unique Eyewear Factory Tour Experience The main highlight of the event was undoubtedly the factory tour, led by our knowledgeable Product Manager, Carolyn Zazra. This rare behind-the-scenes look at a state-of-the-art eyewear factory offered an in-depth view of the meticulous processes involved in crafting AO Eyewear and STATE Optical Co. frames. From the initial design stages to the final touches, attendees had the opportunity to see firsthand how every frame is carefully handcrafted using global components. The tour was not only a unique learning experience, but also provided one hour of CE credit for licensed opticians. “It was incredibly rewarding to see the participants engaged and asking insightful questions, reflecting their dedication to the optical industry,” remarked Kathleen Crowley, further expressing her gratitude, saying, “We really appreciate the networking opportunity and community the OWA provides its members.” Invaluable Networking and Connections Beyond the factory tour, the event was a wonderful opportunity for networking. The camaraderie among the OWA members was evident, and we were touched by the small yet meaningful gestures, such as when one attendee helped another by tying her loose shoelace without a word. Moments like these are a testament to the supportive spirit within the OWA community. One attendee even shared that she plans to return with her daughter to further share the experience. It was heartwarming to see how much our guests valued the education we are able to provide passionate ECPs with our open-door factory philosophy. Looking Ahead and Continuing to Support Each Other The event was undoubtedly the highlight of our week at Europa Eyewear. We are excited to continue our partnership with the OWA and look forward to seeing many of you at Vision Expo and future OWA events. Hosting OWA events is a fantastic way to engage with this beautiful community and build lasting relationships within the industry. Thank you once again to all the OWA members who joined us. We eagerly anticipate hosting another group soon and continuing to celebrate the incredible women who make us proud to be in the optical field. Written by: Emily Perisin

The workplace landscape looks a lot different than it did just a few years ago. So different, in fact, that some of the younger generations joining the workforce might find the phrase “watercooler talk” unfamiliar. Flexible work locations can improve productivity and quality of life, but only when more effort is made to build and maintain interpersonal connections between colleagues who may not physically be together. Failing to do so may lead to a disconnected workplace community. It is more important than ever to invest resources toward fostering these bonds amongst team members. As more women reach for leadership opportunities, we should be mindful of the importance of building cohesive teams. My company recently underwent a significant transformation by forming a new division that combined teams from several other divisions in various physical locations. Navigating these new roles and responsibilities was initially overwhelming for me. Fortunately, our leadership recognized the need to build a foundation of camaraderie by forming a new Ambassador Team. It is a diverse group of people who bring different perspectives to represent each team within the new division. The goal of the Ambassador Team is to cultivate stronger interpersonal bonds that will, in turn, motivate performance. They do this by connecting, engaging, and celebrating our new colleagues through social and developmental events. They also serve as a liaison between employees and leadership, providing valuable feedback and recommendations for growth. Here are some useful strategies our Ambassador Team has planned and implemented within our new division.  We recommend them to anyone searching for ways to build a more cohesive team:       1.      Recognize each other:  Use team communication channels to recognize colleagues’ efforts and express appreciation. Outspoken empathy inspires even greater contributions from everyone who sees it. A little love goes a long way. 2.      Embrace virtual happy hours: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay connected is by scheduling regular virtual happy hour breaks. Make it even more engaging by playing a game. These informal relaxed sessions allow colleagues to catch up, share updates, and bond on a personal level. Setting aside time for casual conversations can lead to stronger relationships and recreate the social aspects of the traditional office environment. 3.      Participate in online team-building activities: Many organizations are now offering virtual team-building activities to promote camaraderie. Whether it's an online trivia game, a virtual escape room, or office bingo, these fun activities deepen the sense of community. Take the initiative in joining or even organizing these events to encourage team spirit and engagement. 4.      Plan in-person meetings or social events: When possible, plan in-person meetings with local colleagues or attend company events. Face-to-face interactions can strengthen bonds and provide a refreshing change from virtual communication. Even occasional in-person gatherings can significantly enhance communication and teamwork. 5.      Poll it together:  Create simple polls to find common interests outside work. This shows regard for employees as more than just workers, while also providing opportunities for deeper bonds between them. For example, a group of pet owners could be invited to a social chat specific to their common interest (Ex. “Pet Corner”).   6.      Prioritize self-care and work–life balance: Lastly, taking care of your well-being is essential for staying connected with others. Prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work–life balance  to prevent burnout and ensure that you bring your best self to every interaction. Many companies offer wellness initiatives like free yoga classes or competitive activity trackers amongst coworkers. Try taking a break during the day to participate in these activities or just go for a walk! When you feel your best, you're more likely to engage positively and meaningfully with colleagues.   Breaking out of your bubble and reconnecting with colleagues requires intentional effort and a proactive approach. Don’t wait for leaders to create an Ambassador Team to get started. Embracing these efforts now can spark new sources of motivation. Participating in team activities can maintain strong, cohesive networks that can help you thrive in your career. Simply staying connected with your colleagues can enhance your work experience while contributing to your personal and professional growth. The “watercooler talk” of the modern workplace must be re-imagined to preserve sources of casual interaction that are more important than ever.     Written by: Kara Perricone

We’ve heard and read it a thousand times; women are seen as nurturing and empathetic, while men tend to be perceived as more assertive and competitive. As a result, society expects men and women to behave differently at the negotiation table. But the truth is, the rules of negotiation are the same for everyone. So why don’t we act like it? Linda Babcock, Professor, and former Dean at Carnegie Mellon University did a study for her book Women Don’t Ask , in which she found men initiate negotiations about four times as often as women. She also reported that 20 percent of adult women say they never negotiate at all, even though they often recognize negotiation as appropriate and even necessary.  Negotiation is an essential skill if you want to be able to advocate for yourself in the workplace; whether it be for a higher salary, consideration for a promotion or different working conditions. The key to finding your voice at work is the same for everyone: increase your visibility, be prepared, and communicate your value with confidence. Increase Your Visibility Let’s be honest, the likelihood of your name coming up when opportunities are discussed is better when people know who you are. Showing up and expressing genuine interest can open doors to negotiations that may seem impossible at first, but become all the more probable when you make yourself visible. While it may seem daunting (especially for us introverted ladies), approach it with intention. Start with regular communication: Talk to your supervisor and your colleagues about your desires for your own future. Make your thoughts known. This creates opportunities for transparent conversations, ensuring people that can help us know where and how we want to be helped. Back this up with action: Volunteer for projects or tasks to showcase your capabilities. This will allow you to take on more experiences as well as interact with more people to build your network. Not only will you illustrate to your team what you can accomplish, but it can raise your profile beyond your immediate team and contribute to a more wide-spread positive reputation. Keep track of your accomplishments: Be sure to know what you’ve done (and maybe haven’t done) to improve on your own performance. Give yourself the facts you need when it comes time to start the negotiation conversation. Personally, I find this exercise also reassures me that I am indeed doing a great job and it boosts my confidence when it comes time to prepare for my negotiation. Be Prepared Regardless of gender, preparation is crucial for successful negotiations. Research the negotiation topic thoroughly, gather data, and develop a clear strategy. Are you advocating for a promotion or raise?  You need to know what your personal stats are on performance and contributions as well as what the industry publishes around those topics. Do you want to change something about your working conditions?  Gather information on the impacts of no change at all on performance, enablement, goals etc. Research the benefits of the new working condition. Look for industry examples, articles and statistics. Once you have prepared your story, test it out.  Role-play different scenarios with mentors, peers, or advisors to improve your skills and confidence. It will also help you think through and refine your arguments. Seek out mentorship from someone you know who has successfully negotiated for themselves — ask them what worked for them and what didn’t. It’s a great opportunity to learn from the experiences of others. Communicate Your Value with Confidence Now, it’s time to have the negotiation conversation. By this point, people know who you are, what you want, and you have a story to bring to the table — It’s time to gather confidence and go for it! Schedule a meeting with the decision maker and explain why what you're asking for is justified and appropriate. Walk through your talking points with confidence and execute on those different scenarios you practiced. When questions arise, use the performance data and industry research to respond. If you don’t have a response, don’t be afraid to say, “that’s a good point, let me look into that.” I want to be clear; it might not work the first time, but don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Legendary actress Carrie Fisher once said "Everything is negotiable. Whether or not the negotiation is easy is another thing .” She was an amazing actress and talent, but she had to work for what she wanted. It’s going to take some effort on your part as well. You don’t have to accept your circumstances as they are, but it truly is up to you to take the action to make things better. As Carrie Fisher also said; "There is no point at which you can say, 'Well, I'm successful now. I might as well take a nap.'" Written by: Holly Gough