Leadership | 10.15.20
Want to Write a NAMSS Article? Why Not!
by Natalie Rose, CPMSM, CPCS
An article about writing an article? This isn’t necessarily something MSPs think about, but I hope you keep reading because there might be an “aha!” moment tucked in here.
Right up there with public speaking, the thought of writing an article can be pretty intimidating. I know the thoughts — I’ve had them: Other people are better qualified; what should I write about; I don’t have the time; what if people actually read it?
I was asked to write an article for Synergy when I was on the NAMSS Ethics Committee. I agreed because I thrive on challenges and embrace the adage, “Say yes and figure out how later.” I gave myself a pep talk: Nobody expects perfection, trust that there will be a nugget of information or inspiration, and just do it!
“Preparing to Be Lucky: Highly Ethical MSPs” touched on the “little” ethical challenges that slide across our desk and may have a gray area or barely register on the radar if we’re not mindful of our ethical code. The bigger challenges are easier to see and turn from. Reviewing the Code of Ethics from time to time creates an opportunity to reflect on our commitment to ethical behaviors and identify blind spots.
Later, I wrote “The Certification Toolkit” because I wanted to encourage MSPs to advocate for themselves and take the next step toward certification. The next step for one person may not be the same as for another; it could be reviewing the candidate handbook, finding a study buddy, taking a prep course, asking your leader for financial support, or registering for the exam. You can find the toolkit here.
I was glad I wrote both articles for several reasons: I had time to reflect on our Code of Ethics; I was reminded of how one next step leads to a journey; writing an article will support my NAMSS Fellow application; and, authoring led to a job offer! Which leads me to … when we think of qualifications and interviews, we tend to think of education, experience, and certification. Yet, I was being interviewed by a hospital CEO and she didn’t ask me about those qualifications. Instead, she asked me about the “Preparing to be Lucky: Highly Ethical MSPs” article – what it was about, why I chose the topic, and authoring in general. At the end of the interview, I was offered the position.
With a couple of articles in the rearview mirror, I want to encourage you to try something out of your comfort zone. I want for you the same sense of accomplishment. You have a perspective, opinion, or experience that others can benefit from if you share it. Nobody expects perfection — we need to be excellent MSPs, not excellent authors. Don’t let the goal of perfection stop you. Trust that there will be a nugget of information or inspiration in your message. Know that it may come in handy later. Who knows what lies ahead? Writing an article may better prepare you for the future.
The next step for writing? Reach out to NAMSS publications editors Lauren Liacouras and Morgan Manghera with your article idea, and they will provide submission details to help you bring your article to life.
Natalie Rose, CPMSM, CPCS, is the director for Trinity Health’s system-wide CVO. She serves as the vice chair of the NAMSS Certification Commission. Natalie presented on CVO and MSO Collaboration at the NAMSS 44th Educational Virtual Conference and Exhibition. Her session is available on-demand through Monday, Nov. 30.