I started watching this new TV show called New Amsterdam (if you’re interested in catching up, Season 2 premiers in September, so you have some time to watch.) It’s about a medical director who has just taken over at an underfunded hospital. The main storyline of the show is that the medical director, Max, wants to change the culture of the hospital to prioritize patient care over profits.
I was surprised to learn that the show is based on a real person, Dr. Eric Manheimer, who served 15 years as a medical director while he faced his own battle with throat cancer.
What caught my attention about this show wasn’t the politics or the conflict surrounding care versus profit. What intrigued me was the way Max handles his job. As he moves through the hospital and deals with people he always asks, “How can I help you?”
Five simple words that change everything in his interaction with the other person.
How can I help you?
It’s so simple but so powerful. As a leader, this is what we are here to do with our teams – help them. Help them to be the hero, help them to be successful, help them to get their job done.
When we start a conversation with “How can I help you,” it shows you care and you are there for them.
When I heard those words come out of Dr. Max Goodwin’s mouth for the first time, I knew the show had me hooked. All I could think about is, “You might be a leader if you start your conversations with how can I help you?”
Until next time…I’m Marty, make every minute count.
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