Balancing science communication and science: Achieving effective outreach when it’s not in your job description Susan vonThun – Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute @omgirlsvt #IMCCBalance

Why do science communication? @omgirlsvt #IMCCBalance Why do science communication? Why wouldn’t you want to talk about your work?! It’s often REQUIRED for NSF and other funding agencies! It’s your duty as a scientist to help people understand the world around them! Meme credit: Andrew Thaler @SFriedScientist

Multitasking is overrated @omgirlsvt #IMCCBalance Multitasking is overrated Neuroscience says that multitasking is bad for your brain! Don’t let SciComm distract you from your job – doing science! Set aside time to do SciComm, but not at the expense of science. Do: Be a spokesperson for the ocean and science. Don’t: Get dragged into controversy when it’s not even about your area of expertise.

Creating a #SciComm brand takes time! @omgirlsvt #IMCCBalance Creating a #SciComm brand takes time! Find influential people on all social platforms to emulate and connect with them Quality, not Quantity – focus on high quality content Use lists on twitter to hone in on the good stuff What are people talking about? Jump in on the conversation. This can also sparks ideas for your content.

Let’s discuss! How do you find balance? @omgirlsvt #IMCCBalance Let’s discuss! How do you find balance? Does your institution encourage outreach and SciComm? How much time do you spend doing SciComm? Do you see more/less value in longer form blogging or is social media enough? How many of you actually DO have communication in your job description?