Seminar Announcement
The Many Dimensions of Communication for Successful Statisticians
David Morganstein
Statistical Group, Westat
Engr 4201 (Computer science conference room)
4400 University Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Time: 11:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M.
Date: Friday, May 3, 2013
Abstract
"I worked hard to get a solid education in a good Statistics Department. I keep current in the profession, reading and taking courses on new statistical methods. What else can I do that might help me in my career and allow me to contribute even more?" The ASA’s recent activities in support of statistical practice have included valuable discussions and seminars on the importance of ‘soft skills’. Improving these soft skills, the way we listen to, support and communicate with our clients, offers opportunities to improve our usefulness above and beyond our important technical contributions.
The talk draws on experience working with many clients while at Westat. It also touches on Westat's history and organization, and describes the activities of its statistical group of 65 MS and PhD statisticians. You'll hear suggestions for best practices for statisticians with emphasis on the importance of nontechnical skills, especially on the many dimensions of communications. The observations presented stem from conducting survey research for government and private organizations and teaching and advising on quality improvement at dozens of organizations, both government and private, world-wide.