July 14, 2023
As leaders, we hold the power to inspire, uplift, and bring out the best in our team members. By fostering an environment of empowerment, we can unlock their potential, drive organizational success, and ultimately enhance the lives of the older adults we serve. As the Executive Director of Rock Creek Senior Living, I want to explore what empowerment means to me, its impact on the workload, and the strategies I use to empower my team members, as well as the current threats to the senior living industry and how empowerment can be a catalyst for overcoming these challenges.
As a leader empowerment means meeting my team where they are. I look to see where they struggle and lift them up through education and by boosting their confidence. When my staff are empowered, I am confident in their abilities to troubleshoot; therefore, my office door does not revolve as much, allowing me to focus on the tasks at hand. To make them their best selves, I support as needed and educated as much as possible. I advocate for my staff and make sure they always feel valued. I remember how I felt when I was empowered by a previous leader and want to do that for my team.
The greatest threat to the senior living industry is the lack of qualified staff. I empower my team by making sure that they have knowledge and feel they are heard when frustrated.
In conclusion, as a leader, empowering your team members is not just a noble goal; it is a strategic imperative. By fostering an environment of trust, autonomy, and continuous growth, you unlock the full potential of your team, reduce your own workload, and enhance the well-being of the aging adults you serve. Empowerment becomes a powerful tool to navigate the challenges faced by the senior living industry, fostering resilience, innovation, and sustainable solutions. So, let’s embrace the transformative power of empowerment and lead our teams toward a brighter future.
Rock Creek Senior Living in Ankeny, Iowa offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Nestled in the Boulder Brook Park subdivision just north of 5th Street, residents of Rock Creek enjoy a close connection with the surrounding neighborhood with tree-lined walking paths that connect directly to local family homes; just minutes away from local shopping and attractions.