The key to organizational success lies not only in engaging employees but also in inspiring them. Recent research conducted by Bain & Company in collaboration with the Economist Intelligence Unit reveals that building a workforce driven by inspiration can yield remarkable results. While engagement is crucial, it's the feeling of meaning and purpose derived from a company's mission that truly sets employees on a path of exceptional productivity. Let me explore the significance of inspiration in healthcare and provide some  insights on how organizations can cultivate an inspired workforce.

1. The Power of Inspiration: Inspired healthcare employees are the driving force behind exceptional outcomes. While employee satisfaction forms the foundation, true engagement and inspiration propel individuals to make a real impact, foster continuous learning and growth, and derive meaning from their work. Inspired employees possess the ability to break through barriers and drive remarkable results.
2. Moving Beyond Traditional Approaches: Many organizations mistakenly focus solely on financial incentives as the primary driver of employee motivation. However, research suggests that this approach may hinder engagement rather than enhance it. To truly inspire healthcare employees, organizations need to invest in the foundational elements beyond monetary rewards.
3. Strengthening Foundational Elements: Creating a work environment that promotes efficiency and minimizes bureaucracy is essential. When employees face unnecessary obstacles, they become disengaged and lose sight of their purpose. Granting autonomy for employees to exercise judgment and creativity empowers them to perform at their best. This certainly is not at the expense of quality patient care and outcomes.
4. Reviving Mission and Purpose: Healthcare organizations must reconnect with their mission and purpose to inspire employees. Over time, companies may lose their sense of higher goals and focus solely on financial performance. By aligning individual and team-based missions with the organization's overarching purpose, employees find inspiration and meaning in their work.
5. Developing Inspirational Leadership: Leaders play a crucial role in fostering inspiration. While many managers excel at achieving performance targets, only a few possess the skills of inspirational leadership. Investing in leadership development programs that focus on inspiring employees can unlock the full potential of individuals and teams.

Conclusion:
In the healthcare industry, engaging employees is not enough. To unlock the true potential of healthcare professionals, organizations must strive to inspire them. By focusing on the foundational elements of employee satisfaction, strengthening work processes, reviving mission and purpose, and developing inspirational leaders, healthcare organizations can cultivate an empowered and inspired workforce. The efforts invested in inspiring healthcare employees will not only lead to exceptional productivity but also yield significant financial and patient care outcomes.

Above or Beyond TAP-RN
Healthcare Staffing Solutions
Dr Sandra Palmer
CEO and Senior Partner
[email protected]