By: Allison McCarthy, MBA | amccarthy@barlowmccarthy.com
The most frequently requested topic when I coach physician relations leaders is how to successfully work with executives and physician leaders. Whether learning to be more effective in managing these relationships in general or around a specific issue or situation, these program leaders recognize that this is a critical leadership skill, given how much these stakeholders influence the program and the leader’s success. While these stakeholders can be operations leaders, service line medical directors, chiefs, chairs, etc., the most important challenge can be with their boss……. their boss’ boss….and others at the top of the organization.
Politics, mission, culture, and other internal dynamics aside, understanding our direct supervisor’s unique personalities and work styles is critical to performance and career success. What makes them tick? How do they make decisions? Do they focus on the details or just the big picture? Who do they report to, and what does your boss need from you to manage that relationship?
Managing up is about building a working relationship that maximizes the time, energy, and effort required to get things done. I’ve worked with several physician relations leaders where the most profound professional stretch was learning to shift from supervisor-directed to being a self-driven leader who constructs the plan and actions needed to fulfill the organization’s strategy.
If one of your professional development goals is to improve your ability to manage those in positions above you, our new group coaching and training program could be just the resource you need to make a shift in this crucial work relationship. To learn more about this upcoming Physician Relations Group Coaching Program, click HERE or email amccarthy@barlowmccarthy.com for more details.