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Together With
Good morning. As leaders in our field, our growth often depends on learning from those who have walked the path before us. This week, I challenge you to take a proactive step in your professional development: call two people who are excelling in areas you aspire to master. Avoid the convenience of emails or messages; instead, make a personal connection by picking up the phone.
Why is this important? Personal connections can provide insights and mentorship that written communication cannot. Hearing someone’s voice allows for a more nuanced and engaging conversation, fostering a deeper understanding and connection.
Before we dive in to today’s topic learn how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) uniquely affect our careforce and gain valuable insights to support your team. Download the report courtesy of KARE by clicking HERE.
Elevate your Career
Here’s how to approach this task:
Step 1: Identify the Right People
Think about the areas where you want to grow. Perhaps it’s improving operational efficiency, adopting new technological trends, or enhancing team-building strategies. Identify two professionals who are recognized for their accomplishments in these areas.
Step 2: Prepare Your Introduction
When you call, be direct yet courteous. Start with a clear, respectful introduction:
“Hey, I am impressed with your accomplishments and would like to talk with you about how you got here if you’re willing.”
This straightforward approach shows your respect for their time and acknowledges their expertise.
Step 3: Have a Goal for the Conversation
Before you make the call, outline what you hope to learn. Are you looking for specific advice, insights into their journey, or tips on overcoming challenges? Having a goal will help guide the conversation and make it more productive.
Step 4: Be an Active Listener
During the call, focus on listening more than talking. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share their experiences and insights. Show genuine interest and appreciation for their willingness to share.
Step 5: Follow Up
After the conversation, send a thank-you note expressing your gratitude for their time and insights. Reflect on what you’ve learned and consider how you can apply these lessons in your own professional journey.
Why This Matters
Building these connections can lead to mentorship opportunities, partnerships, and a broader professional network. As Richard Branson once said, “Succeeding in business is all about making connections.” This rings especially true in our field, where shared knowledge and experiences can drive us towards excellence in resident care and operational management.
Actionable Takeaways:
1. Identify two professionals in your field who inspire you.
2. Prepare a respectful and clear introduction for your call.
3. Set specific goals for what you hope to learn from the conversation.
4. Listen actively and ask open-ended questions.
5. Follow up with a thank-you note and reflect on the insights gained.
Taking this initiative not only helps you grow but also strengthens the sense of community within our profession. By learning from each other, we can collectively enhance the quality of care we provide.
Let’s embrace this challenge and make those calls this week. Your future self will thank you for it.
Feel free to reach out if you need more tailored advice or additional support in your professional journey.
Partners We Love
Together with KARE
Discover the profound impact of trauma among the careforce in Part One of KARE's Trauma and Resilience Report. With the careforce being twice as likely to experience toxic stress compared to the general population, recognizing and addressing trauma is crucial. Download the report today.
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