The Five Rights of Effective Clinical Informatics Leadership

Right Engagement

Effective Clinical Informatics Leadership requires emotional intelligence and deep insight into what makes people and organizations work. Establishing resonant, empathetic connections with others allows the leader to build strong teams and to learn from from them. 

Success for a project and for the individual leader requires understanding of the corporate culture and knowing not just what to accomplish but how to do so.  

To reach a target, one must know where one is starting. Realistic assessment of individuals' and the organization's readiness for change are essential from the start. They should be re-assessed periodically as the endeavor unfolds. 

What is feasible and how quickly can it happen? Who can be influenced and how is it best done? How can leaders forge a deep connection to other organization members, both learning from and influencing them?

Effective leaders learn to engage with others in a two-way accountability relationship, drawing on the best knowledge and energy of their teams, and continually improving their understanding from every personal interaction.

What was the impact of previous communications? How is the thinking of your staff evolving? What personal concerns do they have?

Beyond active listening, recognizing "what really happened" often takes some contemplation and talking it through with a trusted colleague. A coach can ask the leading questions and offer alternative explanations or seek clarification of assumptions. 

Many find that just talking about a complex situation aids understanding --but who is available for the discussion? It needs to be someone with objectivity and expertise who can protect confidentiality and let the leader safely expose whatever vulnerability may exist.

An external coach is well-suited for this role.