Things I’ve learned about leadership

I recently had the great privilege of having a conversation about my personal leadership journey with Dr. Anne Greenhalgh and Mike Useem of the Wharton School on Leadership in Action on SiriusXM Radio.

My gracious hosts guided our discussion from my upbringing to how I view the future of health care. When I was 10-years old I never dreamed that I would become the CEO of anything, much less being a part of growing such a large health care system. But I did know that I wanted to make a difference in the world and that vision has guided me all of my life. That is why today in my organization, I try to create an environment where others can be successful and realize their own dreams.

I started my career as an educator and that desire to teach has never gone away. That’s why I pulled a few snippets from the interview I thought were important things every leader should keep in mind, from a new manager to the president of any company.

I encourage everyone to choose their own leadership journey. There is no greater gift and certainly no greater responsibility. I feel truly blessed to lead such an exemplary team that is over 63,000 strong. It is their work I celebrate every day.

Whatever path you choose, think big, work hard, and always remember to be kind. 

Listen to and empower your team

I've always believed in and felt the power of a team. Very few companies or organizations are successful because of a single individual. In life, whether at school, work, or personal, the greatest things that are probably achieved - are achieved with others. So, a leader’s job is to motivate employees, to engage them as much as possible in what they're doing. Listen to them for better and more efficient ways to do what they do, and make sure that they have the resources to do it.

 Articulate your vision

As a leader you have to have good communication skills, because you have to share your vision about what you're trying to achieve and what everyone’s role is going to be. Most importantly, I work to make sure that everyone sees the importance and the significance of their function in the organization.

 Think of yourself as only one spoke of a wheel

I think of my role as CEO as one spoke of a wheel. I have a certain set of accountabilities and responsibilities, but without the other parts, the wheel won’t turn smoothly. There are many other people who have different accountabilities, and if any one of those spokes is either weaker or stronger than the other, the wheel doesn’t work well.

Remember it’s not about you

As CEO of Dignity Health, I think I'm the most fortunate person in the world because while I am in a significant position, it's really not about me. My philosophy is that I serve at the will of our employees. I never lose sight of the incredible team of professionals who deliver health care services to our patients every day and those who have the best relationships with our communities.

I invite you to listen to the entire episode as originally aired on Sirius XM Channel 111, Business Radio Powered by The Wharton School: https://soundcloud.com/user-414944777/lloyd-dean and to share some of your important lessons in leadership in the comments.