Always Believe You Are a Leader

I was recently at an event, and I was called to the front of the room to give a testimonial. I told my story, how I went from a front line worker to a Director. I talked about how I became a leader and gave some advice on how others can too.

Immediately after I walked back to my seat, a man approached me and asked,“how can I use the word leader if I don’t know that I am one?”

Here’s my simple answer to that, until you feel and believe that you are a leader and you are going to be successful at your business, it will NEVER work!

My biggest advice to those out there that don’t consider themselves leaders is this:  NEVER LACK CONFIDENCE, ALWAYS BELIEVE YOU ARE A LEADER UNTIL YOU ARE ONE!

Confidence is the number one skill that all leaders possess. I talk to so many people that “pass off’ their responsibilities. This is a guaranteed way to failure.

Learn from the best and then BE the best.

To your success!

John Weir

With over 27 years in Healthcare Environmental Services (ES), I lead with a belief that attitude drives outcomes. As a Regional Director at MultiCare Health System, I oversee multi-site ES operations with a focus on people-first leadership, infection control, and operational excellence. I champion a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) not as a slogan, but as a leadership principle. I believe positivity is contagious, and as a leader, I set the tone. Through consistent, uplifting communication, I create environments where ES teams feel empowered to be helpful, proactive, and proud of their impact. For me, development is a choice, and I invest in training, huddles, and coaching that energize teams, helping them thrive in their current roles and grow toward what’s next. My approach to high standards isn't theoretical, it's practical. Just like we notice when a hotel room is clean and fresh, patients and families immediately sense a space that’s been cared for. Through standardized protocols, team accountability, and a shared mission, I help create clean, safe, and healing environments that directly enhance patient experience and staff well-being. It's a privilege to lead teams that play such a vital role in the patient journey, and to help elevate the perception and performance of ES professionals across our system.

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