Articles

The articles section features newly published articles written by Nicky Spencer as well as previously published items that we think you might be interested in.

Going solo

Nicky Spencer and John Willets offer some advice to managers thinking of making the move into independent consultancy. An article in Health Management earlier this year assessed some of the implications of becoming an independent consultant. But what does it mean in practice? What are some of the pitfalls you should be aware of? Here [...]

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Time lords

Learning to manage your time effectively is a valuable skill for anyone, but particularly busy managers. Procrastination may be the thief of time, but these tips from a recent IHM East Midlands event will help tackle your personal “time thieves”. So you want to manage your time better? Well, there’s no time like the present. [...]

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Nicky Spencer on the pitfalls of email

Every magnificent technological advance in communications presents us with a double edged sword. The battle for the effective use of email is just beginning. Best practice focuses on three issues: when to use email; when not to use email and how best to construct our message. Think: is it necessary, is it wise, is it [...]

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Nicky Spencer on handling NHS complaints

It’s tempting to avoid complaints or that quiet aside that indicates dissatisfaction with our services. But it’s a false economy. Dealing well with complaints as early as you can saves time, resources and reputation, and improves quality. A few weeks ago, I escorted my aunt to hospital. Conflicting information about a proposed thyroidectomy left her [...]

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NHS workforce health and well being

A while back, I was asked to deliver a day programme on health and wellbeing at work. Delegates had considered the importance of good health and its strong links to productivity and were keen to find ways to minimise the causes of ill health. They opted, initially, to focus on reducing stress in their workforce. [...]

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Aspiring to leadership

July brings us a further step forward in the delivery of Inspiring Leaders, the regional leadership plans. The initiative itself recognises that sound leadership must be married with service improvement and good financial investment to improve care quality. Also, this month, strategic health authorities will present their talent and leadership plans to the Department of [...]

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Nicky Spencer on the three dimensions of workload management

Overwhelmed by your workload? Need to increase capacity at work, career potential, confidence? You’ve checked your job description and you have the right credentials for the job. The priorities for your role and the department are as clear as they can be. You’re good at managing your time, prioritising the urgent. The sheer number of [...]

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