3. Take action strategically
Like Rardin, Paul Luchi, director of nutrition and dining services for Clovis Community Medical Center in Clovis, Calif., injects his style slowly and methodically. First, Luchi spends time with the staff to learn what’s expected of them, and doesn’t make recommendations right away. However, he immediately shares nonnegotiables that directly impact patients, guests and employees, so that everyone understands who he is and what he expects. After six months of digesting, leadership then has a complete understanding of objectives, goals and expectations. “With [supervisors’] help, the message is delivered to the front-line staff, and from there we will manage them up or manage them out,” he says.