Module 2 Introduction
Each of us is shaped by a lifetime of experiences and influences that create our unique values, beliefs and preferred ways of functioning. Our preferences become patterns of behavior that may (or may not!) help us achieve our goals. The key to effective clinical leadership is constantly evaluating whether our actions are moving us - and those with whom we interact - in positive directions and simultaneously examining how those actions relate to our most deeply held values and beliefs.
Can leadership be unethical? Unfortunately history gives us many examples of unethical patterns of leadership many of which have occurred in the current decade. However, critical reflection and feedback of various types of leadership helps us play out the dance between action and introspection so that our leadership is informed by values and ethical principles. Further, there is always the question of how to manage our weaknesses. Do we identify goals for improvement and focus our energies on those areas? On the other hand, do we use an alternate strategy such as playing to our strengths and surrounding ourselves with people who have talents that complement our own? The leadership literature suggests both, so what is the thoughtful nurse leader to do?
A strengths-based approach to leadership involves helping leaders gain insight into and understanding of their individual differences and natural talents. According to Rath and Conchie (2008), each person’s talents are enduring and unique; the greatest room for growth is in the area of his or her greatest strength. Gallup studied and worked with thousands of leadership teams, finding that each member had his or her own unique strengths, and the most cohesive and successful teams possessed broader groupings of strengths. Major domains included executing, influencing, relationship building, and strategic thinking. Based on these findings, these authors believe that there are three keys to being a more effective leader: knowing your strengths and investing in others’ strengths; getting people with the right strengths on your team; and understanding and meeting the four basic needs of those who look to you for leadership. Other concepts important to effective leadership are emotional intelligence, influence, values and ethics. This module is designed is designed to help you identify your leaderships strengths and incorporate emotional intelligence, influence and personal values to create a model of ethical leadership.