10 Things I Know for Sure About Nursing Leadership

By Rose O. Sherman, EdD, RN, FAAN

We are in turbulent times in healthcare. Planning in leadership can be challenging. As one of my nurse leader colleagues recently told me – it is like putting together a puzzle without all the pieces in place. Sometimes it can seem like our world is in constant flux and what worked in the past no longer seems to be effective today. Nurses look to their leaders more than ever to help them to frame what sometimes appears to be the chaos of change.

Not everything that I once believed about leadership is still true today. Times change and the context of leadership changes with it. But there are some things that will always be true about leadership – here are 10 things that I know for sure.

Leadership is ultimately about influence – if you are unable to influence those who follow you – you will not be effective even if you are in a leadership role.
Leaders need to walk their talk – nurses will watch how you behave and it is so much more powerful than what you say. This can be uncomfortable but it is true.
Leaders must be willing to challenge their own assumptions – and be prepared to sometimes be wrong. Especially in the current environment.
Leaders need to actively listen and communicate – all the time and in many different ways (emails, texts, on paper, in conversation). And to say things repeatedly because often messages are not heard the first time.
Leaders need to keep the bigger picture in mind – short term thinking does not lead to long-term accomplishments.
Leaders need to watch the signposts of change – as an example – driverless cars could rock the healthcare world.
Leaders should be coaches first and foremost – our staff needs and wants this feedback and coaching from supportive leaders.
Leaders need to give people second chances – it can be a very powerful impetus to help a staff member change their behavior.
Leaders need to recognize when something is not working – and not struggle to hold onto a sacred cow. Knowing when to hold on and when to let go is important.
Leaders need to be willing to admit their own mistakes openly – it sends a powerful message and builds trust.