Three Tips on How to Be The Boss (When You're Not the Boss)

As Physician Liaisons, we realize that it is frustrating to successfully affect change without having any official authority over anyone or anything. Here are three quick tips to help you influence the people you work with to maximize an opportunity – or overcome a challenge – even when you are not their boss!

1. Be Collaborative and Inclusive:
   When asking for help or making a request, everyone should know the “why.” Why do you need their help and “what’s in it for them”? Let them know how the result of their efforts will benefit their department and the hospital.
2. Praise Other People:
   Don’t place blame. Instead, emphasize everyone’s contribution as you work with departments to resolve issues and get things done. When you report progress and a success to leadership, they will value both the solution and your collaborative process.
3. Pick Your Battles:
   Go after the issues that are going to make a difference! Show the data that demonstrates the bottom-line impact of the challenge or opportunity.

The critical step is to build the trust and understanding required to overcome barriers and maximize opportunities as a team.
We recommend a proven “boot camp” method that has worked for hundreds of organizations. It begins with several months of internal training and shadowing in the service lines chosen as priorities for growth. This allows time to develop those key relationships with department managers and other organization leaders before stepping into the first physician office.
I hope you find the tips in the video useful. You’ll also appreciate our article, “Becoming a Person of Influence.”
If you would like to explore how our Physician-Hospital Relations service line “boot camp” will position you to succeed in your role as a liaison, give us a call or fill out the form below.