Change your messaging…

One of my previous blog posts was all about dealing with staff coming to you with problems. 

I always used to ask my staff in the hospital “What do you think you should do?” And they always knew what they wanted to do - they just needed permission to do it!

But recently I saw a Tweet that warned about using the phrase “Don’t bring me your problems—bring me solutions!”  And I agree! Sometimes leaders say “Don’t bring me your problems - bring me solutions” in the belief that they are “empowering” their team. But they may be reinforcing silo thinking and poor decision making. Team members may feel that no one can help them and get stuck!

Change the message to “Bring me your problems, let’s share solutions and collaborate on next steps!”

That’s really empowering!

 Interested in this issue - I can help. Contact me and let’s talk.