In addition to reflecting on the three pillars of building early credibility – clarity, consistency and connection, it is important to understand that credibility isn’t about being flawless - it’s about being authentic, accountable, and growth-oriented.
Here are some mindset shifts that can support your transition in your early months as you find the role of a Consultant:
Integrity: Own your decisions and be transparent about your rationale. Admit mistakes and learn from them.
Humility: Recognise that leadership is a service. Stay open to feedback and be willing to learn from all levels.
Strategic thinking: Begin to see the bigger picture - service development, resource management, and quality improvement. Consultants shape systems, not just solve clinical problems.
Mentorship: Support junior colleagues. Sharing knowledge and offering guidance builds your reputation as a trusted leader. Conversely, ensure that you also have mentors to support you in your transition.
In addition to shifting your mindset to that of a ‘consultant’ there are also a number of other practical steps you can take that support you to build credibility early, these include:
Introduce yourself with purpose: Share your role, interests, and how you plan to contribute.
Celebrate team wins: Acknowledge others’ contributions. It fosters goodwill and strengthens relationships.
Document well: Clear, concise notes reflect clinical reasoning and professionalism.
Follow up: Check in on patients and tasks you’ve delegated. It shows care and accountability.
As we indicated in our last instalment, building credibility by being clear, consistent, and connected is a strong starting point. Keep reviewing where you measure on these pillars but extend this further to reflect further on how your authenticity, accountability and openness to learning and growth can guide the continued development of your credibility as a consultant. Note down a few points for each where you will concentrate your effort.
If you would like further support as you build your credibility as a junior consultant or as you prepare to transition to a consultant role, please remember AMA Victoria offers a wide range of coaching services and supports many members at transition points throughout their careers especially during the transition to consultant.
To find out more, visit Professional Development and Careers or book a career call to speak with a member of our team.
The next instalment of Stepping up to Consultant will briefly review behaviours, mindsets and actions that can potentially undermine your credibility and reputation. The focus will be to raise your awareness of these and to provide strategies to address and avoid them.