In March, AdventHealth CEO Terry Shaw posed a question to his followers on LinkedIn: "What advice would you give to young professionals as they begin their career?"
Mr. Shaw offered three key sentiments: Be the person who gets work done, and helps others do the same; learn to communicate, both up and down; and ask the next question.
The best advice that six hospital leaders said they would give to young professionals:
Kimberly Hodgkinson. Former SVP and CFO at Hospital Sisters Health System (Springfield, Ill.): Take care of yourself as this will give you the energy to be present both personally and professionally.
Jill Piazza. Vice President, COO at AdventHealth Population Health Services Organization (Orlando, Fla.): Say yes to new opportunities if they will continue to help you learn and grow. I have done this throughout my career, even when it was scary.
Todd Dunn. Former Vice President of Enterprise Innovation at Advocate Health (Charlotte, N.C.): Keep the well being and development of your team at the forefront of your focus and your actions.
Steve Serrao, MD. Chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Riverside (Calif.) University Health System: Stay grounded to the core mission and your calling but be comfortable dealing with uncertainty, don't be afraid to reinvent yourself.
Tim Dutton. Former Chief Human Resources Officer, EVP at Kettering (Ohio) Health Network: Recognize others often and sincerely for the talent they demonstrate. They will be encouraged to use it more and everyone wins as a result.
Deborah Spielman. COO at AdventHealth Porter (Denver): Never hesitate to ask questions! Questions demonstrate curiosity and help you avoid assumptions…and, it gives others an opportunity to share their perspective which leads to feeling valued.