Question
What role do leaders play in preventing "quiet quitting" among respiratory therapists?
Answer
Leaders play a crucial role in preventing "quiet quitting," where employees disengage and only meet minimum job expectations. One effective approach is prioritizing personal and professional development, which directly counteracts the disengagement cycle by reinforcing therapists’ sense of purpose and commitment. Leaders can offer meaningful opportunities for growth, like attending conferences, pursuing additional certifications, or engaging in leadership training, which keeps team members motivated and connected to their work.
Furthermore, when leaders facilitate a supportive environment where staff feel valued for their contributions and see a pathway for growth, therapists are more likely to remain engaged and less likely to adopt a “bare minimum” mentality. Personal development opportunities empower staff to invest in their roles, resulting in higher job satisfaction and ultimately improved patient care.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, “Developing Staff Through All Stages of a Career,” presented by Carrie Coffman, RRT.
