These discussions can help hone a point or reveal the heart of an issue where individuals can meet in the middle, Dr. Lawrence says. The ongoing discussion about the value of independent practices vs. IR/DR groups is a good example. “We all agree there’s a spectrum and benefits to both,” Dr. Lawrence says. “And we wouldn’t have gotten there without strong feelings on either side.”
But these debates can also make some hesitant to join in, out of fear of criticism or getting embroiled in a debate. Dr. Lawrence cites discussions he’s seen on other medical forums that can get out of hand.
“SIR Connect might be the greatest value- add I have from my SIR membership.”
The SIR Connect Code of Conduct lists several rules intended to promote polite discussion—do not challenge or attack others and respect the right of everyone to speak their mind. Defamatory, abusive, profane, threatening or offensive language is also prohibited. But Dr. Lawrence recommends considering more personal “rules” to guide interactions.
“Rather than firing off a response, I try to take plenty of time to read, edit and make sure my posts aren’t confrontational,” says Dr. Lawrence. “I’ll hold my ground and take opposite opinions, but I try not to say one person’s way of looking and doing is worse or better than another person’s.”
Dr. Lawrence applies this mindset to all his online responses, not just in heated discussions. “I try hard to be sensitive and noncritical, because I think that really is the key. And I try to be encouraging to younger members, because there’s a lot of them and they’re eager to learn.”
This bridge between older and newer generations is one of the most
engaging aspects of SIR Connect for Dr. Lawrence. “I’ve posted things before and heard back from people I knew long ago—people who practiced in my father’s era,” says Dr. Lawrence. He described his delight in hearing from members like Richard G. Fisher, MD, and John Rhoem, MD, FSIR, who occasionally weigh in to provide context on the history of IR and show how far the field has moved.
“IR has grown so much so quickly,” says Dr. Lawrence. “Young doctors are used to the tech and science, but back in the good old days it was a very ‘by the seat of your pants’ type of thing.”
Hearing stories like this can provide context, but also a chance to connect with older generations. “Once a thread gets going, people jump on and get to hear the war stories, and I think it’s great—it’s a bit of reminiscing, a bit of a history lesson.”
The SIR Connect experience can be whatever you make of it— from networking to seeking job opportunities to connecting with experts in the field, the sky is the limit.
“SIR Connect is fantastic,” says Dr. Azene. “It might be the greatest value- add I have from my SIR membership.”
Netiquette tips DO... DON'T...
remember permanence. Everything you post stays forever.
hesitate to contact people directly.
Weary of joining a big
discussion? Use the reply privately function.
take your time.
Read, edit and consider your words.
worry about asking questions.
A large community can give
complex answers to even the simplest query.
be willing to step back. Speak your piece and continue on to help
discussions move forward.
forget your audience. SIR Connect is like a large
workplace discussion—don’t forget to treat it accordingly.
Tips compiled from the SIR Connect Code of Conduct, David Lawrence Jr., MD, and
business.com.
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