Teams, no matter how large or small, rely on key components to function and thrive. We asked University leaders to share their insights on building connections, showing support, and managing performance. Among the responses, a number of useful tips and effective management strategies emerged.
“Staying connected with my team is most important to me as this connection is what makes the team stronger and happier,” said Emily Parham, senior practice manager, University of Miami Hospital and Clinics, Coral Springs satellite. “Having the basic understanding of what goes on in each department and getting to know team members individually helps in strengthening that connection.”
Find ways to build connections and promote inclusivity.
“The discussions during our huddle are not limited to talking about projects or tickets. I encourage team members to ask questions about the topic background, history, and processes. We started a knowledge-sharing session during which anyone can share what they are working on and give the team the opportunity to learn from it.”
—Tatiana Arreglado, director of UHealth information technology clinical optimization and process improvement, UHealth/Miller School of Medicine
“We schedule regular lunch meetups. It is a way to still stay personally connected with each other. I am almost fully remote, and this has helped us to stay connected.”
—Arian Gomez, senior systems administrator, Coral Gables
“I remind team members that even though they are not physically on site, organizational support is readily available to them. It is also equally important to be present in meetings and calls—if I am multitasking, I am not fully engaged with the team. Seeking team feedback helps motivate employees to perform better and ensures that we’re on track to achieve the goals that are important to the organization.”
—Emily Parham, senior practice manager, University of Miami Hospital and Clinics, Coral Springs satellite
“We had some folks in our team that were not physically present on campus during the pandemic. And to make them feel like we support them, we made sure that all our team meetings that were in person also had a Zoom component so they could participate and stay engaged.”
—David Rivero, chief, University of Miami Police Department
Take advantage of available tools and technology.
“I send my team a good morning note with a GIF or initiate a five-minute Teams call to ask my team members about their weekend or their family. I also send individual text messages to let them know ‘I am here for you.’ ”
—Anne Saint-Jean, senior manager, medical collections, UHealth/Miller School of Medicine
“I leverage Microsoft Teams and turn on the camera to get better engagement, so we're not just ‘voices in your head.’ I also try to be flexible as things have changed for folks since we began working from home two years ago.”
—Juan Ruiz, manager, information technology, Coral Gables
Encourage and provide feedback and gratitude.
“I meet with my team members during huddles and one-on-one sessions and share follow-up documentation. In these sessions, we always include an open forum to obtain feedback from the team. Their feedback helps me determine what is working well and what I can do better. I try to align our specific department goals with organizational goals and standards.”
—Kauthar Carr, director of health information management, UHealth/Miller School of Medicine
“Virtual high fives! We make sure to say THANK YOU and specify what we are thanking team members for—it's not enough to just say ‘good job.’ Details are essential.”
—Flora Fox, director of donor experience, development and alumni relations, Coral Gables
Learn more about professional development opportunities.
Visit miami.edu/inspire or contact tod@miami.edu for more information.
