When a Barrier Falls
This is the second in a series of blog articles applying political quotes to frontline leadership. There is no intention of supporting or disparaging any candidate or party but rather learning from their words of wisdom. We will have to wait and see whether or not politicians and parties can turn words into action.
“Whenever a barrier falls in America, it clears the way for everyone.” Hillary Clinton
On the heels of two political conventions, one-line catch phrases are as abundant as bugs on the windshield after a drive in the country. Instead of using the quotes to defend or denigrate a candidate, good leaders listen and apply the principles from the quotes to their workplace and the team they serve. For managers, identifying and removing barriers is often the difference between success and failure.
Back in the day, as the population moved from the East coast to populate the vast continent, it was important to have more than the vision of “go west.” Forward scouts were the trailblazers who led the way. They not only charted the course but also removed obstacles so that the wagon train could move forward. Likewise, the successful frontline leader is the person who not only knows the direction but also is able to move barriers.
Removing personal barriers
Recognizing and removing barriers is an ongoing activity for most frontline healthcare managers. Obstacles arise not only in response to implementation of change but also to maintaining the status quo. Though we frequently claim that someone or something is in the way, the first barrier often lies within. In leadership, lack of self- confidence or lack of knowledge are internal rocks in the road that must first be addressed before tackling external boulders. To prepare yourself:
• Study and thoroughly understand the present state. Know the greater goal of the organization and the history of policies that govern your daily activities.
• Have a clear vision of what you want to achieve and why it is important.
• Develop a network of trusted colleagues both within your workgroup and your organization whose support is reliable and trusted. Talk with them, ask questions and “listen to understand.”
• Move forward with confidence knowing that others share your desire for success.
Removing team barriers
As an all-star frontline worker it was all about you. You were recognized for excellence and your work was held as an example for others to follow. Now, as a leader, you are no longer judged by your personal work but rather by the results achieved by the team. The engaged and collaborative work of your team will ensure success. The good news is that your team wants to do a good job. Giving them the right tools is essential.
• Information: Communication with the team is essential. They must understand and share a clear vision of the desired outcome and have confidence that your leadership will support their efforts.
• Involvement: Make sure that every member of your team has responsibility and feels that each is, and all are, an important part of the overall success. Make this about the team and not about you.
• Goals: Identify benchmarks that are readily measured and visible to all. When the larger task is divided into smaller steps, each having a benchmark, the team will be eager to achieve the next goal.
• Reward: Celebrate success as each step is achieved. Small steps can be rewarded with recognition for a job well done. When the greater goal is achieved, a large celebration is in order.
All political candidates, regardless of party, speak in platitudes that describe an ideal world. They all make promises that cannot be kept. As frontline leaders and managers, you are in a unique position to take the principles put forth by the candidates and apply them directly to the workplace where they can and will make a difference. Be a trailblazer, leading the way with confidence and integrity, and turn the barriers into little bumps in the road.
Thomas Davis is an experienced clinical anesthetist, leader, speaker and the owner of Frontline Team Development and Leadership.