As the CEO of Rx Medical, a company that provides innovative technological and medical advancements through direct services and affiliated companies, my team and I are aware that we live in an ever-changing complicated world where advantages and challenges – often in unison – are ever present. Within our family of businesses, ongoing leadership development helps to equip current and future leaders for business growth in the competitive healthcare industry. We believe continuous leadership training enables improvement and the acquisition of new methods, abilities, and skills which supports leadership effectiveness.
In today’s world of work, we can no longer rely on dated leadership concepts. Some approaches and methods have become obsolete so forward-thinking leaders must adapt to new challenges that require effective, consistent, and impactful development strategies. While some of us are guilty of needlessly complicating things (I’m guilty at times as well), sometimes it boils down to our ability to just keep things simple – especially when guiding others to rise to the occasion.
For new leaders, stepping into your first official role can sometimes feel overwhelming and intimidating as you take on new responsibilities. I’ve learned it can be a matter of trial and error. Identifying and embracing effective techniques to help you and your organization “move the needle” forward) are key.
Two-word phrases to highlight leadership core concepts and stay on track can be a great resource says Bill Treasurer, author of the book Leadership Two Words at a Time: Simple Truths for Leading Complicated People. In his publication, Treasurer suggests staying open to the possibilities of two-word reminders when faced with challenges. If you tend to interrupt others in meetings for instance, tell yourself a two-word reminder to “talk less”. It’s not always about fancy language or having all the answers when managing workplace triggers. Consider embracing some of Treasurer’s additional examples of two-word leadership lessons to help you stay the course and lead by example.
Examples of Two-Word Leadership Lessons
“Model Courage”: Be first to take a brave leap forward; your team will follow.
“Showcase Setbacks”: Don’t tell arrogant stories about your heroics. Instead, share leadership stories about when work got the better of you so people can identify and learn from your mistakes.
“Take Notes”: A sign of respect when others bring challenges to you is to take notes. This also helps you maintain accurate records indicating dates/times and any follow up steps needed.
“Explore Beliefs”: Be aware of other people’s beliefs and take action to model respect regarding workplace differences.
“Get Associated”: Join your industry’s professional organizations to network and stay current. Diverse groups of people in your network can often create new opportunities for growth.
“Give Access”: Provide employees at all levels access to your leadership team for further inspiration and a way of expressing appreciation to each role within the organization.
“Normalize Discomfort”: Experiencing discomfort is a healthy part of professional growth. Demonstrate by example how working outside comfort zones can foster new ideas and move business (and individuals) ahead.
The more leaders complicate things, the longer it can take to implement and/or demonstrate positive habits in the workplace. Leaders who remember to keep language and strategies simple foster a work culture of quicker understanding which can shorten learning curves and accelerate time to mastery!
📌 Leadership Challenge: What additional two-word phrases or lessons have you found helpful in your workplace? Inviting you to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Brandon Rouse leads a diverse and growing team of professionals well-versed in the challenges facing healthcare today. Headquartered in Oklahoma City, OK, Brandon’s experienced team represents various technological and innovative medical solutions. ZB RX Medical and RX Medical are direct distributors of Zimmer Biomet.