What is the WLI Speakers' Bureau?
The WLI Speakers' Bureau is a program with two components. The first is a database that contains information about women EPs, their backgrounds, areas of expertise and speaking interests. The database also captures women EPs’ interests in other professional venues that enhance visibility and build professional networks, such as scoring abstracts or reviewing manuscripts. The second component is the Speakers Bureau/Professional Venues Working Group, a group of WLI volunteers who work to bring qualified women EPs to the attention of program chairs and other decision makers.
How does it work?
The WLI Speaker's Bureau/Professional Venues Working Group is building a database to serve the needs of women EPs. Initially, the database will be used to produce lists of women EPs who are qualified to speak on various topics, or want to volunteer their expertise in other venues. The Working Group will target program chairs and others who seeking faculty at their events, as well as HRS committee chairs, HRS committee staff liaisons, editors and others who are seeking to diversify their pools of available talent. In the future, the Working Group hopes to be able to automate this process via the WLI website.
How can I be included in the database?
To be included in the database, you must complete the WLI Survey. You must also submit your CV separately to Kristen Downey of the Heart Rhythm Society. There is no cost or obligation to you, and your information is protected by the privacy policies of the Heart Rhythm Society. You do not need to be an HRS member to submit a WLI survey.
Are opportunities guaranteed?
No. The WLI Speakers Bureau is an information service of the Women’s Leadership Initiative. We do not select speakers or nominate individuals for committee appointments or writing groups. Our goal is to make information about qualified women EPs readily available during the selection process for faculty, abstract and manuscript peer review assignments, and HRS volunteer activities.
I want to speak at professional meetings but don’t have much speaking experience. How do I get started and/or strengthen my speaking skills?
Check out the information on the WLI website about making academic presentations, developing scientific posters, public speaking tips, working with PowerPoint and what to do when the AV equipment dies. Learn more.
I’m not interested in speaking but would like to get more involved in the field. Can the WLI Speakers Bureau help me?
Yes. The Speakers Bureau is the place to express your interest in a wide range of professional opportunities. Non-speaking venues include:
- Scoring abstracts for scientific meetings
- Reviewing manuscripts for journals
- Serving on a committee or task force
- Serving as a member of a writing group
What else can I do to build my professional stature?
Browse the WLI website for information and advice designed to help women EPs succeed. For example:
- Using HRS professional opportunities to build your leadership skills and increase your professional visibility and networks.
- Serving as a mentor or becoming a mentee through the WLI Mentorship Program. Learn more.
- For more information about the WLI Speakers Bureau, contact the Speakers Bureau/Professional Venues Working Group or Kristen Downey at the Heart Rhythm Society.
