Building a Strong Team

Your team can make or break your success as a healthcare manager. While many of us are promoted due to our clinical skills or work ethic, leading a team often requires a different set of skills – skills that aren't always taught when you start your new role.

Whether you're a new manager or new to your facility, building trust and confidence within your team is essential. Here are some practical strategies to help you cultivate a strong, supportive, and engaged team:

1. Connect on a Personal Level

• Remember names: It may seem simple, but remembering names shows respect and demonstrates that you value each individual.

• Show genuine interest: Take a few minutes to learn about your team members' lives, families, and interests.

• Follow up: Refer back to previous conversations to show that you're truly listening and care about them as people.

  
  

2. Foster Open Communication

• Be transparent: Share information about what you're working on, even if you can't divulge all the details.

• Value their opinions: Encourage collaboration and seek out their expertise.

• Acknowledge mistakes: Don't be afraid to admit when you're wrong and work to resolve conflicts constructively.

  
  

3. Identify and Empower Key Players

• Recognize natural leaders: Identify those who already have influence within the team and cultivate their support.

• Engage with dissatisfied team members: Address their concerns and help them feel valued and heard.

  
  

4. Adapt Your Leadership Style

• Be flexible: Recognize that different situations require different leadership approaches. Sometimes you need to be a coach, other times a cheerleader, and sometimes a disciplinarian.

• Check in regularly: Assess your team's needs and adjust your leadership style accordingly.

  
  

Building a strong team takes time and effort on a daily basis, but the rewards are immeasurable. By fostering trust, communication, and collaboration, you can create a positive and productive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

Need more guidance? Reach out to us! We're here to help you navigate the challenges of building your own strong team.