Why Healthcare Managers Should Do Fieldwork—How It Builds Trust, Empathy, and Smarter Decisions

Managers should be trained to do the jobs of the people they manage. Firsthand experience makes leaders more empathetic and gives them insight into day-to-day operations. It helps their employees to trust more, leading to improved team dynamics. Let’s talk about the benefits of fieldwork for managers, including improved communication, enhanced decision-making, and a stronger connection to their teams.

What is Manager Fieldwork—Why It Matters in Healthcare Leadership

Managerial fieldwork involves managers actively participating in frontline roles, such as housekeeping or floor care. This immersive approach builds empathy and understanding by exposing managers to the daily challenges and details of these essential jobs. This deepens their appreciation for the staff’s dedication and empowers managers to make informed, realistic decisions that resonate with both staff and patients.

Key Benefits of Fieldwork for Managers in Healthcare Facilities

Improved Communication and Collaboration

Working alongside field staff brings managers closer (literally) to the frontline work, enhancing their understanding of staff needs and daily responsibilities. This experience encourages open communication and collaboration, strengthening teamwork and making managers more approachable.

Sometimes, the best way to figure out where your team’s pain points are is to work a day in their shoes. What’s working, what’s not working? Is there room for improvement with training or daily huddles? Managers can answer many of these questions quickly simply by getting out into the field more frequently.

Enhanced Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills

Along the same lines, direct exposure to the demands of roles like housekeeping, especially in high-stakes areas like the ER, sharpens a manager’s problem-solving abilities. For instance, understanding the urgency of room turnover in emergency settings allows managers to respond quickly and supportively to ensure smooth patient flow.

How Fieldwork Shapes Team Culture and Manager-Staff Relationships

Through fieldwork, managers build closer bonds with team members, sharing experiences that foster camaraderie. This mutual understanding cultivates a culture of respect, where staff feel valued for their attention to detail and their role in enhancing patient experience.

Tips for Managers—Getting the Most Out of Fieldwork

• Practice Empathy: Engage with fieldwork authentically to gain a genuine perspective.
• Observe the Details: Pay attention to tasks like thorough room cleaning, as these details are essential to patient safety and comfort.
• Communicate Actively: Use the opportunity to ask questions and learn from the staff.
• Reflect on Lessons Learned: Use insights from fieldwork to improve management strategies and team support.
• Rinse and repeat: Make it a goal to get out into the field once a quarter or more to keep fostering communication and support.

By experiencing fieldwork, managers gain firsthand insight into the dedication and skills required to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and safety in healthcare facilities. For our managers at HHS, this experience not only builds trust and respect within teams but also empowers our managers to make informed decisions that positively impact patient care.