The strongest leaders make significant personal connections with individual employees.
"Business relationships are inherently personal," according to Forbes contributor George Bradt. The following three steps from Mr. Bradt can strengthen connections and subsequently, leadership.
- Learn to recognize an opportunity to connect. Healthcare leaders are busy people and connections take time. However, it is time well spent, according to Mr. Bradt. Matters that are urgent yet seem unimportant are likely important to someone else. Pay attention when employees are sharing information and attempting to connect.
- Be responsive to connections. Use "active constructive" responses, which are positive in nature and structured around finding out more. If an employee shares a success, respond with positive remarks and ask for additional information to establish interest in their success.
- Follow through. Do what you say you will in conversation and commit to continued interactions with employees at various levels.
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