Self-Preservation in Complex Organizations

Just a few years ago a leader, new to his healthcare organization, shared that his introduction to many of his colleagues was when they called him angry that they had been excluded from one of his meetings.  Another leader with a similar organization terminated a manager for good reason, only to find out later she was first cousins to one of the corporate executives.  Navigating complex organizations can be tricky, some decisions can lead to career limiting outcomes, and stress and burnout can certainly follow.  Self-Preservation requires an understanding of corporate culture, your own degree of emotional intelligence, your leadership style and your leader’s style, and finally, how to be well in the midst of it all.  Nail these down, and it’s a great start to your survival within healthcare and academia.