How to Cultivate Staff Accountability in Your Practice

Recently, we have looked at planning and the critical need for consistent communication with your staff. This week we’ll explore the importance of staff accountability in achieving practice goals and the connection between staff accountability and communication.

Culture Amp, a top ranked employee feedback and analytics platform, surveyed hundreds of thousands of employees and when asked if their organization responded when an employee was not delivering in their role, 55% said their organizations do not act. Experience shows us that working in an environment without accountability negatively impacts employee morale, productivity, and ultimately financial results.

Often when people hear the word accountability, they have a negative reaction. Reactions are normally based on our own negative experiences either as the receiver or giver of accountability feedback.

Developing a culture where accountability is consistent requires that a leader provides clarity of responsibilities and expectations to all their employees. The foundation is built starting with values and continues with job descriptions, goals, and on-going communication.

When your communication efforts highlight positive examples of your staff embracing practice values, meeting and exceeding their responsibilities and goals, then you are signifying the importance of accountability. By recognizing individual staff members for their efforts, you are building a foundation of accountability and a culture of accountability.

For example, one of your practice values is that the patient always comes first. Last week a member of your staff spent an unusual amount of time working with a challenging patient, explaining and coordinating their post-surgery care. Recognizing their commitment during your staff meetings show the staff that you are aware and appreciative of their efforts and reminds them of the importance of your values.

This environment inspires individual and team accountability and ensures that your staff knows that accountability is a two-way street. This does not mean that you will not ever have to cross the street but it does mean that you will recognize an individual’s mistakes quickly and allow you to address timely. With this, your staff will be much more accepting of your feedback because you manage accountability from both sides of the street.

If you would like help in strengthening your practice, and building a culture of accountability, please contact me at smays@impactpracticeconsultants.com. Our programs are custom designed to fit the needs of your practice and budget.