1:30min
By Rhiannon Riches
The ODMA 2015 Exhibition and Conference is celebrating ‘Independent’s Day’ on 4 July by inviting independent optometrists to celebrate their independence.
Two events will be held: a social event for independent optometrists, and a ‘speed dating’ networking session for independent practitioners seeking a business or succession partner.
The social event will have an American-style flavour, with a big brass band, entertainers wearing straw boaters, hot dogs and a ‘Born on the 4th of July’ competition.
CEO of the Optical Distributors and Manufacturers Association, Finola Carey, said ODMA wanted to reward independent optometrists with recognition, and for practitioners to feel they deserved a pat on the back and to be appreciated,’ she said.
At the speed-dating session, experts will be on hand to assist attendees, whether they are young optometrists or dispensers looking to join an established practice, or senior practitioners looking for an exit plan.
Ms Carey said ODMA was preparing questions for young and senior optometrists to ask on their speed date, to help break the ice and keep expectations realistic.
She said she had observed the speed-dating concept in the legal profession, where law firms speed-dated with new graduates, and she adopted the concept for independent practitioners.
The speed-dating session is not open to corporate recruiters and spaces are limited. Registration is essential.
Register at www.odma-2015.com.au.
ODMA 2015 Exhibition and Conference will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, South Bank, on 3-5 July.