Leadership in Long-Term Care Isn’t About Titles—It’s About Trust.
- Eliza Messerschmidt
- Jul 17, 2025
- 1 min read
In this field, your greatest resource is your people. Retention isn’t won through incentives alone—it’s built on loyalty, mutual respect, and clear, compassionate communication.
The culture on your floor is a reflection of how you show up. Even on the hardest days, I try to lead with a smile—because positivity is contagious, and kindness creates calm. But that smile doesn’t mean I’m not tired or challenged. It means I care enough to rise to the moment for my team.
There’s a delicate balance in leadership—being strong enough to guide and decisive when it counts, but human enough to be real. Your staff should never wonder if you care. They should feel it in how you check in, how you listen, and how you invite them to grow alongside you.
Empowerment starts when people feel seen. So I make space to ask: How are you really doing? What do you need to do your best work? How can I help you grow?
Because when your team knows you believe in them—they stay. They lead with you. And together, you create the kind of culture that truly honors the residents we serve.




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