This month, many companies are conducting their annual inventory for tax purposes. As an empowered manager, you should inventory the assets you have, too. Human assets.
To get you started, here are some categories in which you should be well stocked:
Team leaders---Kept in the light at all times with inspiration, communication, and challenges, this stock item is a staple for every workplace. Don't let your quantity of Team Leaders get too low or stagnant from inactivity or mixed messages. This item is on backorder at most workplaces and cannot be easily replaced.
Team players---Team Leaders need Team Players. Not every human asset in your inventory wants to lead, so don't let this item run low. Keep them warm with compliments and in the light of their leaders.
Born educators---Only a few of these will suffice, but they are one of your most precious assets. Keep this item in front of people, preferably a classroom. They thrive best when provided with current material, training tools, and support. Don't make them use flawed, error-riddled resources. The materials you let them use tells them about how much (or little) you value their efforts.
Standards afficionados---This stock item knows the standards and refuses to deviate from them. It thrives where diversions and exceptions to the procedure are disciplined, and will have a short shelf life where it's not.
Customer Service Concierges---Patients ask for this product by name. It creates the kind of word-of-mouth that drives more work through your front door. Keep them in well-lit places with many opportunities for interaction with the public and other departments.
Problem Solvers---This inventory item bring problems to your attention and also propose solutions that work.
LMHs (Loyal Human Machines)---These components of your inventory are automatons. They are self-operating machines with big hearts and fierce loyalty to you, your company, and your policies. Without them, you can't stay in business for long. Keep plenty on hand.
Everything else in your inventory should be sold off at a deep discount. They are your tax. Empowered healthcare managers don't pay taxes on their human resource inventory.
Blogger's note: On behalf of the Empowered Healthcare Manager and the Center for Phlebotomy Education, I'd like to wish you a fruitful, prosperous and empowered New Year.