Introduction:
In this interview, we have the privilege of speaking with David Hopkins, a multi-talented individual with a wealth of experience in the senior living industry. David is not only a keynote speaker, BTG Ambassador, and author of “Kazoo Leadership – 5 Notable Steps to become a great leader,” but he also brings a unique perspective gained from his time as a former Disney leader and Healthcare Magic Maker. With experience ranging from “low-income to luxury” in senior living, David’s insights are invaluable. He has described the senior living industry as the “Biggest Smallest Industry out there.” Let’s delve into his expertise with some thought-provoking questions.
Q: What would you say are the three main reasons why organizations engage you?
A (David Hopkins): I would say there are three primary reasons organizations engage me. First, it’s for a “culture wellness check.” Second, it’s often because they’re facing employee problems or leadership problems. And third, it’s about creating a strategy to implement and guide leaders back to the basics.
Q: Do you have a specific method of analysis or assessment tool you use in your work?
A (David Hopkins): Yes, I use the Predictive Index as an assessment tool. It begins with an assessment and ends with a productive and aligned workplace. Employee behavior is a reflection of the unique ways you and your coworkers contribute to the team and organization. By understanding how these behaviors manifest day to day, you can take steps to accommodate your people’s needs and improve your team as a whole.
Q: What is your litmus test for a community in the senior living industry?
A (David Hopkins): I have a simple litmus test: “Trash in the Shrubs.” If you can’t keep the outside clean, it’s a reflection of what’s inside a community. You can look at senior communities as a bubble, and there is an outer community in a bigger bubble, much like a university.
Q: How long do you typically work with communities, and what’s the average time for a consultation and leadership program?
A (David Hopkins): I would say six months is the average amount of time. You can’t drive a cruise ship like a Ferrari; it takes time to navigate and steer the course effectively.
Q: Tell us about your book, “Kazoo Leadership.” Who would be the most interested in reading it?
A (David Hopkins): “Kazoo Leadership” is a valuable resource for anyone who considers themselves a leader. It’s for those who need a route back to the basics. We all need to understand a tool for ourselves to get back to basics when we need it the most. The book is particularly relevant for people dealing with turnover, burnout, and lack of support. We’ve all heard the phrase “drinking from a firehouse,” but for some, it’s like drinking from multiple firehouses. I enjoy helping leaders lead the way.
David Hopkins’ extensive experience and his commitment to guiding leaders and organizations back to the basics make his insights valuable for anyone involved in leadership, particularly in the senior living industry. His book, “Kazoo Leadership,” offers a blueprint for effective leadership and is a must-read for those facing the challenges of leadership in today’s world.
