Whether the loss of a previous team leader was expected or not, joining a new team as a leader requires great sensitivity, in addition to experience and ability. Although it will require the utmost understanding and professionalism, entering a team as a new leader is a fantastic opportunity for you to offer a fresh perspective on healthcare and innovative thoughts on team management. Interim managers have the unique ability to improve a team’s productivity, while also raising morale and boosting internal communication.
To ensure that the interim manager fully utilizes this opportunity to share knowledge and influence their assigned team, there are certain crucial steps to consider.
First and foremost, you will want to become well acquainted with each individual member of your new team. This can be achieved through one-on-one meetings, where you can understand each individual’s needs and goals moving forward. It will also give you the opportunity to address any questions or concerns they may have with the leadership transition. In order to best assist your team, it’s important that you learn about each person’s hopes and expects from your leadership.
Building personal relationships with the team members will also build trust. Trust is one of the most important vales a leader can have. The more a team trusts their interim manager, the more focused and devoted they will be as a team.
It is also imperative that you coordinate an initial, introductory team meeting. In this meeting, you can fully introduce yourself to the group and explain your own goals for working with them. Additionally, if this meeting is held after the one-on-one introductions, you can provide a summary of what was discussed in those meetings, explaining how you intend to address each and every goal, question, or concern.
Although you are there to guide and assist your new team, don’t be afraid to let them teach you something new, too! The best ideas tend to be collaborations, so give team members the chance to express opinions and influence the team on their own.
