How to Thrive as an Interim Healthcare Executive

If you're an interim healthcare executive, you know how much of a challenge it can be to thrive in these types of positions. Whether you are filling in for a leave of absence or leading an organization through a period of transition, there are certain steps and strategies you can take to ensure your success and make the most of your experience. 

This blog will provide you with an overview of the interim executive role, including the typical responsibilities and expectations. You'll also learn about some of the key challenges and rewards associated with this type of position. By understanding what to expect, you can be better prepared for your new role. 

Establish your authority and build credibility with the staff. 

It's important to establish your authority and build credibility with your staff. This can be done by making sure that your decisions are aligned with the organization's values and vision. Develop strong relationships with key stakeholders and create engagement activities and initiatives to rally staff and incent/inspire them to meet metrics and goals. This includes being knowledgeable about the current state of the healthcare industry, as well as having a clear vision for what you want to achieve during your tenure. Establishing a clear plan will help you gain the trust and respect of your staff, and ultimately help you succeed during and after your placement. 

Create a positive work environment. 

Healthcare leaders play an important role in creating a positive work environment. This means being open and approachable, fostering communication and collaboration, and setting clear expectations. By doing so, you can help team members feel valued and supported, and create an environment that is conducive to high-quality patient care. In today's healthcare landscape, the challenges of the pandemic, and the ongoing stress of healthcare reform; teams need more support more than ever to thrive.

Build a strong network of colleagues and contacts.

Interim healthcare executives can often feel isolated, so it's important to have a strong network. Whether it's close friends or family members, colleagues, a therapist or counselor, or a professional organization, having people you can rely on will help you stay on track. Your network can provide critical support during tough times and offer valuable insights and advice. In addition, a strong network can help you expand your reach and influence within the healthcare industry. So make the time to invest in yourself and others. It will pay off in the long run.

Be prepared to lead through change and uncertainty.

Interim healthcare leaders help ensure that important projects and initiatives continue moving forward while permanent leaders are sought. In today's healthcare landscape, change and uncertainty are the norm. Hospitals and healthcare organizations need their interim leaders to manage transitions, provide much-needed stability during times of change, help keep projects on track, and ensure day-to-day operations continue smoothly. To do this effectively, interim leaders must offer fresh perspectives and new ideas, anticipate change, adapt quickly, make fast decisions, and pivot during times of change and uncertainty to meet the ever-changing needs of the healthcare system.

Experienced, passionate interim healthcare executives are in high demand due to the many challenges and opportunities posed by the current healthcare landscape. Interims play a critical role in leading an organization through change, whether it be a turnaround, growth phase, or crisis situation. By leveraging these key strategies, interim executives can set themselves up for success and make a positive impact.

Previously published on Newsweek.