22 MAY QUESTION

I'm a new front-line worker and I have lots of ideas about how we could improve our service. I'm worried that no one will listen to my suggestions and I'm anxious about being seen as too keen or just naïve by some of my more experienced colleagues. What should I do?

We will answer this question in the 22 May issue. We want to publish readers' advice too - send to Derren Hayes by 16 May, or just reply to this post.

Do you have your own career dilemma? Send your comments or questions for consideration by our expert panel and your peers to Derren Hayes

I would hope very much that any suggestions or contributions that you make are taken seriously and if a new colleague who was newly qualified arrived in my team, I would appreciate a fresh take on service delivery issues and welcome someone who takes an active interest in service improvement - even on their very first day. 

Of course, it can depend on a team but I wouldn't want to work in any team where experienced colleagues (of which I suppose I should include myself, having been working for.. well, more than a few years!)  were not receptive to someone offering new ideas and suggestions.  

Don't be afraid to voice your suggestions.  Often teams can become 'comfortable' and stop looking for ways to improve/change their services.  As a new member of staff, you will obviously have a different perspective to established members of the team and this is often a positive thing.  At your next supervision session, try raising some of your points.

Hi Guys

Thanks for your replies.

Our expert panel will give there answer in next weeks issue.

Briggers