Leadership takes several skills to effectively lead a team. Communication is a skill that is a necessity in care teams. Having proficient communication skills enhances a leader’s ability to guide their team to success. Resident care relies on communication between both care team members and residents. The first step in leadership is opening communication routes and setting expectations.
An article from the National Library of Medicine stresses the importance of communication in the healthcare setting. The article refers to communication as a “fundamental clinical skill” and shows growth in both residents and staff as a result of effective communication. 1
Positives for Communication
- Avoiding mistakes: One of the most considerable positives of having strong communication skills in care facilities is that it can help avoid mistakes. When medication and treatments are involved, it is important to be careful and consistent. It only takes one mistake to see detrimental results. Communicating clearly with care teams is a significant way these mistakes can be prevented.
- Positive relationships: When working with a care team, trust and positive relationships must be formed. Leadership can sometimes involve difficult conversations with a team. Having positive relationships and trust can create the foundation for feedback and growth. Furthermore, a team runs successfully when all members feel valued and appreciated.
- Productivity: Communicating tasks and goals assists with the productivity of a team. Teams can devise systems with communication to increase productivity. It is easier to complete tasks when every team member is on board with expectations.
- Growth: There is always room for improvement. No person or team is perfect. Clear communication can give not only individuals in leadership roles but all care team members space to improve.
How to be an effective communicator:
- Be clear and concise: Setting clear expectations with team members reduces mistakes and allows little room for miscommunication. Giving feedback and directions should be effective and not just demanding. When a team knows what is being asked of them, they are able to do their jobs with diligence.
- Be willing to listen: One of the most significant ways a leader can guide a team to success is by listening. Being a leader does not mean taking charge and being the only voice in the room. There is always room to hear others out and take suggestions from team members. Sometimes, changing a common way of thinking can lead to amazing results.
- Ask questions: Along with listening, leaders can always ask questions for clarification. Confusion creates more problems than solutions. Asking questions shows active listening and may assist others who have similar confusion. A leader is willing to learn. Developing skills to best support residents and care team members is important in leadership.
- Be present: Actively participating in a care team is significant for success. Showing up for a team and residents shows leadership and compassion. It is important to lead by example. Being present in the care team is one example of demonstrating this capability.
Through Engagement Through Education, care team members will be taught the proficiency required in leadership roles. Nursing leadership, medication delegation, and management and leadership skills are just a few of the training sessions ETE offers care teams. Success starts with education.
| Equipping your care team with the knowledge and skills is the cornerstone of safer care. Our free monthly training session, held on the first Tuesday of every month, provides your team with the tools and confidence to help optimize resident well-being within your community. Each session covers critical topics like medication, compliance, safety, and best practices—while empowering your team to ask questions and solve problems. Don’t miss this opportunity to help support your residents’ safety and equip your care team with the knowledge and confidence to provide exceptional care. Sign up for our next training today! |
Reference
- Chichirez CM, Purcărea VL. Interpersonal communication in healthcare. J Med Life. 2018 Apr-Jun;11(2):119-122. PMID: 30140317; PMCID: PMC6101690.
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