The afternoon began with a lively presentation by Dr Gabrielle Casper, Immediate Past President of the MWIA on “Lessons Learned During MWIA Leadership Training”.
The excellent negotiation and difficult conversations workshop was facilitated by NSW-based lawyer and professional mediator Ms Shirli Kirschner and Victorian-based conflict management coach Mr David Bryson, who developed the sessions specifically for medical women attending the Congress.
Participants were provided with conflict management tools and skills that could be readily applied in their day to day practice.
Points discussed included:
– understand alternatives to gain perspectives
– keep the relationship in mind
– the importance of communication
– know that crucial conversations are characterized by emotion
– work with interests not positions
– expand options
– commit clearly
– centre yourself
At the end of the afternoon Dr Jillian Tomlinson presented details of the AFMW Bridging Leadership Barriers Project objectives and achievements. The session was officially closed by Dr Atsuko Heshiki, MWIA President, before Congress attendees proceeded to the Welcome Reception in the Sofitel Promenade.
