What are the best ways for patient advocates to build strong relationships with colleagues?

1 Communicate clearly and respectfully

Communication is key to any relationship, especially in the complex and dynamic field of health care. You need to communicate clearly and respectfully with your colleagues, both verbally and in writing, to avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and errors. Make sure you use appropriate language, tone, and etiquette, and avoid jargon, slang, or sarcasm. Listen actively and empathetically to your colleagues' concerns, questions, and feedback, and acknowledge their contributions and expertise. Also, be transparent and honest about your role, responsibilities, and expectations, and respect the boundaries and confidentiality of your colleagues and clients.

3 Appreciate diversity and embrace differences

Working with diverse colleagues can be challenging, but also rewarding. You can build strong relationships with your colleagues by appreciating their diversity and embracing their differences. Diversity can include factors such as culture, ethnicity, language, religion, gender, age, education, background, personality, style, or opinion. Instead of judging or dismissing your colleagues based on their differences, try to understand and respect their views, preferences, and needs. You can also celebrate and acknowledge their achievements, strengths, and contributions, and express gratitude and recognition for their support and cooperation.

4 Collaborate and cooperate

Collaboration and cooperation are essential for effective patient advocacy. You need to work with your colleagues as a team, not as competitors or adversaries. You can collaborate and cooperate with your colleagues by setting common goals, sharing information and resources, delegating tasks and responsibilities, making decisions together, solving problems creatively, and supporting each other. You can also use tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and cooperation, such as online calendars, documents, chats, or video calls. By collaborating and cooperating with your colleagues, you can improve your efficiency, quality, and outcomes, and build trust and rapport.

5 Manage conflicts and challenges

Despite your best efforts, conflicts and challenges with colleagues may arise. To manage these situations constructively and professionally, you should first identify the source and nature of the conflict or challenge. Acknowledge your own feelings and emotions, and then approach your colleague in a respectful manner to ask for permission and availability to talk. Explain your perspective and concerns, and listen to theirs without interrupting, blaming, or criticizing. Aim to understand and empathize with them, and negotiate a mutually acceptable solution. Apologize and forgive if needed, thank your colleague for their time and cooperation, then agree on the actions and follow-ups. By managing conflicts in this way, you can prevent or resolve issues, maintain or restore relationships, and learn from the experience.

6 Maintain and nurture relationships

Maintaining and nurturing relationships with your colleagues is essential for creating a positive and supportive work environment. To do this, it's important to keep in touch and follow up regularly, showing interest in their work and personal lives while offering help and support. Furthermore, give and receive compliments, praise, and encouragement while being friendly and approachable. Inviting and joining social activities, such as coffee breaks, lunches, or outings can also help strengthen your bonds. By doing these things, you can enhance your satisfaction and well-being while creating a positive work environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?