not sure i'm a leader

Libby1987 · Mar 15, 2016

You can be a leader in some way in any job, have you found yourself taking opportunities to lead where you are currently? Have you been proactive in improving patient care, unifying your staff, supporting your coworkers in a way that helps them improve, helping resolve conflicts...

If you haven't then I'd say that no you are either not ready or not inherently wired that way. I would either practice it in your daily work now or seek spreparation of some kind before you jump into something that doesn't fit you.

One of the reasons I was told that I was hired into a leadership position is because I led without being asked to, in a way that benefited everyone during a rough very uncomfortable transition. I didn't lead a protest when one was brewing but promoted growth in our skills and attitude towards an unavoidable change (EMR). I initiated and pulled our group through leaving no one behind being pro company/patient/nurse and that came naturally to me without any formal mgmt training. That was my biggie but I also did it regularly in much smaller ways. Falling into a leadership role was a seamless transition because I am comfortable as a leader. It was never about a job that had regular hours or more pay, it was about a role that I wanted and I haven't looked back, though I did love patient care.

Does that make sense?

WinterLilac · Jun 24, 2016

You can be a leader in some way in any job, have you found yourself taking opportunities to lead where you are currently? Have you been proactive in improving patient care, unifying your staff, supporting your coworkers in a way that helps them improve, helping resolve conflicts...
If you haven't then I'd say that no you are either not ready or not inherently wired that way. I would either practice it in your daily work now or seek spreparation of some kind before you jump into something that doesn't fit you.
One of the reasons I was told that I was hired into a leadership position is because I led without being asked to, in a way that benefited everyone during a rough very uncomfortable transition. I didn't lead a protest when one was brewing but promoted growth in our skills and attitude towards an unavoidable change (EMR). I initiated and pulled our group through leaving no one behind being pro company/patient/nurse and that came naturally to me without any formal mgmt training. That was my biggie but I also did it regularly in much smaller ways. Falling into a leadership role was a seamless transition because I am comfortable as a leader. It was never about a job that had regular hours or more pay, it was about a role that I wanted and I haven't looked back, though I did love patient care.
Does that make sense?

I love this. It does make sense Libby1987 and you've said a lot of what I would have said. I too am a born leader and slot easily into the management role however OP, I can understand your hesitancy taking on this role. It sounds like a wonderful and exciting new career for you however it is a big responsibility and you would have to be prepared to make decisions and stand by your decisions whether other people like them or not.

When I first started in my role, I was Assistant Coordinator and worked alongside the coordinator. I watched and learned, making mental notes about the way issues were handled by the coordinator. There was a lot of things that she did that didn't sit well with me however I kept my mouth shut and I would spend time at home researching best practice guidelines, the Mental Health Act (Australia), the recovery model. I also did online short courses in leadership, management, human resources and the basics in psychology. OP, I understand the enormous role you have as a mum to 3 kids however if you can, do some research into how to move into the role you have been offered. How to be an effective leader and how to both integrate into a managerial position while keeping open communication with the staff.

When I was given my new role as boss less than a year after I started (which was a bit daunting), I scheduled one on one time with each staff member and asked them how they felt their job was going, any suggestions they had, what they like and dislike and what they expect from me as their manager. This was invaluable as it opened communication from the get go and I could assist and support the staff as I got to know each person and their role. I have an open door policy in my office and often get on the floor and do night shifts, day shift tasks etc. If you can, walk the walk as well as talking the talk (if time permits).

Try to get off to a good start with the staff, they are the life blood. Get to know each and every one of them and their role/responsibilities. Be their ally and they will be yours. And stand by your staff, if they feel you are batting for the team and support them even through rough times (med errors, errors of judgement etc), I know they'll respect you. Be firm but fair.

Good luck OP. Give this job a chance and if you can understand what both myself and Libby1987 are saying, I'm sure you'll be fine! Let us know if you accept the position and how you go. I'm happy to be a sounding board if you ever want to discuss or debrief :)

peabozzle · Sep 3, 2016

All of this is excellent advice. I truly believe that there are leaders that aren't management & management that aren't leaders. There is a difference.