Practical approaches to enhance your profile in your organisation – the BMJ Evidence Centre Information Specialist Team experience Olwen Beaven Deputy Information Specialist Manager

An unusual place to work! BMJ Evidence Centre Publishing company Information Specialists – 7 in team Literature searching for evidence-based products Nothing else like us in company Not linked to BMA Library

Hidden/unknown expertise Not traditional part of the industry Your needs and preferences overlooked Lack of understanding about what work entails Not aware of skills we have Pigeon-holed, don’t see beyond limited role No company mandate/imperative

Changes - Training BMJ Clinical Evidence was on NeLH – strong library influence – obvious involvement – lots of activity Internal Marketing Dept changes Technology – tutorials, podcasts, online Occasional ‘Training the Trainer’ style sessions Sometimes assist on exhibition stands if at a conference

Scanning service Routine checks of free resources on web Mentions of BMJ products, trends, etc. Select items for Sales/Marketing dept. Developments in methodology, informatics Send to interested individuals Informal – what we’re aware of

Conference/Meeting reports Writing notes for rest of Team Writing separate set of notes for Business Management and Sales/Marketing Key points, useful ideas, that might be of interest to those parts of the company A lot of library innovations are transferable May have heard things all before - surprisingly well received

Internal Meetings Make the most of opportunities to have your say Be prepared to highlight problems Respond to organisation surveys/questionnaires Make your preferences known Don’t be afraid to stick your head above the parapet!

Social situations Changing perceptions Part of Department charity quiz team Christmas Party organising team Head of BMA Library acted as host for ‘BMA Idol’ charity event People always seem surprised it’s a librarian doing something

If all else fails……. Bribery and corruption! Make a point of always showing gratitude to other teams or individuals who have assisted your staff If particular extensive help has been offered, I buy small box of chocs for individuals Buy the BMA Library biscuits at Christmas! People remember you

And Finally Why bother? Improves day to day working Makes your job more interesting More useful to your organisation Keep a broader range of skills honed Future proofing Job security

Olwen Beaven: “BMJ Publishing Group Limited (“BMJ Group”) All rights reserved.” Thank you!