Dianne Pajo
As you prepare to open your new clinical laboratory, you should consider how you will manage its day-to-day operations. To assess and confirm your qualifications for this responsibility, read about the five important skills you need to manage a laboratory.
Skill #1: the Ability To Lead
It’s easy to presume that your medical background gives you enough qualifications to transition into a management role. However, lab managers should have management experience or the skills to excel in management. After all, you might fail if you cannot lead effectively by making important decisions for the team or inspiring confidence. Fortunately, consultants can assist you with your lab misconceptions by helping you manage your laboratory effectively and make better decisions for your business.
Skill #2: the Ability To Communicate
The ability to communicate well is also important when managing a laboratory. You will have to communicate with your employees within the lab and with scientists and other managers at higher levels. This communication must effectively delegate and inform, so if you can do that, you may be a good fit for the role.
Skill #3: the Ability To Budget
Another important skill you need to manage a laboratory is the ability to maintain a budget for your lab. You will have to keep track of costs and secure funding, which require some financial savvy. You also must be able to make a good case for why your laboratory should win funding grants. This is an especially important quality for a lab manager to have, as a lab without secure financials is on shaky ground.
Skill #4: the Ability To Solve Problems
There are bound to be problems in any work environment, and your lab is no different. When those challenges arise, your people will depend on you for a quick solution. Your ability to creatively deal with challenges, cope with stress, and prioritize issues will be critical to the success of your lab and your effectiveness as a manager.
Skill #5: the Ability To Maintain Safety
Every work environment requires a manager who can monitor safety, especially in a laboratory with all the tools and hazardous materials involved. You also must ensure your people complete safety training and understand best safety practices. Otherwise, your lab will risk its associates’ welfare.
If you have all or several of these skills, you may be ready to take on the role of a lab manager. If not, consider taking time to develop these skills, so you are better prepared for the role.
