As an entrepreneur who has navigated the fast-paced and ever-changing landscapes of both commercial real estate and healthcare, I have learned that one of the most crucial factors for sustained success is building a strong, cohesive team. It’s not enough to have a great idea or a solid business plan; you need the right people working with you to bring that vision to life. Throughout my career, I’ve come to understand that visionary leadership isn’t just about setting a direction; it’s about empowering others to follow that direction with passion, commitment, and creativity.
In this blog, I want to share some of the insights I’ve gathered on how to build a thriving team in competitive industries. It’s not an easy task, but with the right approach, it can make all the difference in your company’s long-term success.
The Foundation: Trust and Empowerment
One of the first lessons I learned about leadership is that a successful team is built on trust. As a leader, I’ve always believed in empowering my team members to take ownership of their roles. Trusting your people means giving them the freedom to make decisions and the responsibility to manage their own areas of work. In competitive industries like real estate and healthcare, where rapid change is the norm, it’s essential to give people the room to think creatively and respond quickly to new challenges.
When I first started in commercial real estate, I was often tempted to micromanage every detail. After all, it was my business, my investment, and I wanted everything to be perfect. But over time, I realized that my role as a leader was to provide guidance and set clear expectations, not to get caught up in every small decision. By allowing my team to take the lead on certain aspects of a project, I was not only fostering trust but also encouraging them to develop their own problem-solving skills. This approach has paid off time and again, as it has allowed my team to rise to challenges and deliver results beyond my expectations.
Clear Communication: The Key to Alignment
Building a thriving team also requires clear and transparent communication. In competitive industries, where the landscape can shift overnight, it’s critical that everyone on the team is aligned with the company’s mission, vision, and goals. I’ve always made it a priority to ensure that my team understands not just the “what” and the “how” of our work, but also the “why.”
For instance, in my role as COO at Vital Care Pharmacy’s advanced medical adult day care division, it’s crucial that every team member understands our overarching mission of providing high-quality care to our clients. By making sure that the team is aligned with this mission, I’ve seen them take ownership of their roles in a way that directly benefits our patients and the business as a whole. Whether it’s a nurse, a manager, or an administrative staff member, when everyone understands the bigger picture, they’re more motivated to perform at their best.
Clear communication also means being open and honest. As a leader, it’s my responsibility to share both successes and setbacks with the team. In my experience, transparency fosters a culture of accountability and collaboration. When the team understands what’s working and what isn’t, they can adjust and innovate more effectively. This helps ensure that we’re all moving in the same direction, even when faced with unexpected challenges.
Fostering a Culture of Growth
One of the key elements of building a thriving team is creating a culture of continuous learning and growth. In both real estate and healthcare, staying ahead of the curve requires not just technical expertise but also the ability to adapt to new trends and emerging technologies. I believe that fostering a culture of growth involves not only encouraging my team to develop professionally but also investing in their personal development.
For example, in commercial real estate, the market is always changing—new regulations, economic shifts, and consumer preferences can all impact our business. To keep up, I’ve always made it a point to provide my team with opportunities to learn about the latest industry trends, whether that’s through professional development programs, attending conferences, or simply encouraging them to stay curious. When employees feel supported in their growth, they’re more likely to stay engaged and contribute innovative ideas to the business.
Similarly, in the healthcare sector, innovation is key. We are constantly looking for ways to improve the care we provide to our patients, and this can only happen if our team is equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Whether it’s a new treatment protocol, new healthcare technology, or improved patient care strategies, I make sure that my team has access to the training and resources they need to stay at the forefront of the industry.
Leading with Empathy and Vision
While a clear strategy and a strong team are vital to success, the emotional aspect of leadership shouldn’t be underestimated. As a leader, I’ve learned that showing empathy and understanding toward my team is just as important as setting the vision. People work best when they feel valued and understood, and I believe that taking the time to connect with my team on a personal level has been a significant factor in creating a positive work environment.
When I lead, I make a conscious effort to recognize the individual strengths and challenges of each team member. I take the time to listen to their concerns, provide feedback, and offer support where needed. This not only boosts morale but also fosters a culture of collaboration, where team members are more willing to share ideas, offer solutions, and work together toward common goals.
A Thriving Team Equals a Thriving Business
Building a thriving team in a competitive industry requires more than just hiring talented individuals—it requires visionary leadership. A leader must provide a clear direction, foster a culture of trust and growth, and communicate effectively with the team. But perhaps most importantly, a leader must show empathy, understanding, and care for the well-being of their team. When you invest in your people and create an environment where they can thrive, the results speak for themselves.
As I continue to grow in both real estate and healthcare, I know that my ability to build and nurture strong teams will be the cornerstone of my success. The right team can turn a vision into reality, and as a leader, it’s my responsibility to ensure that my team has everything they need to succeed. That’s what keeps me inspired and excited for the future.