The appropriate leadership style to use in a healthcare setting depends on the characteristics of the individual worker. The most effective leadership style depends on their competence, their level of education, their training, experience, motivation, and personal factors. Using the appropriate leadership style is associate with higher levels of nurse job satisfaction and retention (Azaare & Gross, 2011).
Description of a Leader
My current nursing administrator uses the democratic and authoritarian leadership style. She is democratic in that she allows the staff to set their own goals. She solicits their feedback and input when making decisions. She promotes a team approach by asking for staff input when a health issues arises. She is democratic in the brainstorming portion of decision making, but is authoritarian when it comes to the final decision.
Leadership Integration
My preferred leadership style is democratic, but authoritarian when necessary. My philosophy is that the democratic style is preferred when it comes to a team effort, but the leader must have firm control of the group. The authoritarian leadership style works for inexperienced team members. A health care leader must be articulate, independent, and proactive in their leadership style (Azaare & Gross, 2011).
Potential Effect of Leadership Style
The leadership style has a significant effect on morale and productivity. This can have an effect on the quality of care for the patients. Marquis and Huston (2015) state that leadership influences the climate and outcome of the entire work group. Trust and respect of the group is an essential element for the leader to acquire. This motivates the staff to provide quality, evidence-based services for the patients.
- Azaare, J., & Gross, J. (2011). The nature of leadership style in nursing management. British
Journal of Nursing, 20 (11), 672–676, 678–680.Retrieved from the Walden
Library databases. - Marquis, B. L. & Huston, C. J. (2015). Leadership roles and management functions in nursing:
Theory and Application (8th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott, Williams &
Wilkins
