In the job arena changes are, for the most part, always evolving. While some employees handle the changes well and in a positive manner, other employees find it most difficult. Even when working with the tiniest of patients in a neonatal unit, a new manager will often bring changes that no one likes or wants.
Adapting to a new Neonatal Nurse Practitioner Manager can be one of the most complicated situations you may face. It is daunting to get used to a new set of rules and methods of practicing. One thing is for sure, this situation is out of the control of the NNPs. There is no room for uncooperative staff in such an urgent situation. All employees, including the NNP, need to know the answers to these fundamental questions.
- Who is involved with these changes?
- What is happening?
- When are these changes going to occur?
- Where are these changes taking place?
- Why are these changes needed?
As the changes begin, you, as an NNP, need to dismiss all of the fears and worries through expressions and balance of determination, love, kindness, understanding, strength, and endurance. Everyone, including managers, has a uniqueness that is not found in anyone else at work or in private lives. It is expected that the new manager will have a unique signature and style on how they work.
Acceptance is the first step to understanding these changes, and your coworkers need support through the changes as much as you do.
Even though they are new, everyone looks upon a NP Manager as a problem solver (i.e., the one that has the answer when there seems to be no answer to a difficult situation.) This is a problematic requirement as they become comfortable with the unit, but you can be there to assist them through these times.
The following positive tips go a long way in making sure that the adjustment period goes well.
- Never show anger or disapproval of the actions of a new NP Manager in front of others. Do this in private, always.
- Be open to doing things differently. A new way may be the best way.
- Learn to communicate verbally in a positive manner. Let your manager know how you feel and what you believe.
- Share all you can about new ideas and information with your manager and be willing to listen and have open communication.
- Avoid gossiping about those you work with, including your new NP Manager. Gossip is harmful, bitter, unfair, hugely detrimental, and in some instances, totally untrue or twisted.
- Learn to listen more and speak less. (there’s a reason we were born with two ears and only one mouth)
- Learn the skill of empathy for others, including your tiny patients, their family, your coworkers, and your new NP Manager.
Remember, even though changes are happening that are out of your control, you can make a difference in the new manager’s career. The more that you can share your trust and understanding, the easier the adjustment time will be.
