What leadership strategies can practice owners use to weather the Covid-19 crisis?
Answer
If there’s one thing that’s true about the Covid-19 crisis, it’s that the situation is constantly changing. It makes specific, tactical advice difficult to offer—so even the big ideas I mention below might not work for everyone. But there are some key management principles you can lean into in difficult circumstances like we’re all experiencing right now.
Keep yourself, your team, and your patients as safe and healthy as possible. Heed the advice and recommendations from your local, state, and federal government. In many jurisdictions, that may mean closing your physical office. While we can disagree about the idea that hearing healthcare is “non-essential,” follow their guidance. Follow cleaning and personal protection protocols from the CDC and AAA.
Stay informed of your local conditions and news. Pay close attention to changes in your community and local government policies. National news, while important, won’t directly affect if and how you can offer services to your patients. Local conditions will. Social media can be a good platform to reach your patients, but it can be littered with false claims and stories.
Be positive but face the facts. Don’t dodge the hard facts, and keep faith that you will come through this challenge stronger. Maintain this attitude and you will maintain your team’s trust, even as you make difficult choices. Your team wants to have confidence in your leadership. They will value your honesty and accountability.
Communicate clearly with your team and your patients. Explain your plans and next steps to your team. If you’re offering remote care, helping supply your patients with batteries, or providing other services, make sure your team knows their responsibilities. Communicate regularly with your patients using email or social media, so they understand you care and will be there for them during and after this disruption.
Stay up to date on best practices, Covid-19 management resources, and sample patient communications on Widex’ Practice Management website.
Paul Johanson
Business Development Manager
As an experienced Entrepreneur, Investor, and Leader in the healthcare industry, Paul brings in-depth experience in building companies from the ground up, as well as working with practices in re-designing their approach to success to his role as Business Development Manager at Widex. From practice ownership to designing global expansion and development strategies for one of the world’s largest franchises, Paul has served in various positions from consulting to senior leadership roles within the ENT and Audiology Industry, where he was instrumental in designing and delivering specific leadership and sales training programs, in-depth data analysis, and on-going growth initiatives.
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