Democratic leadership style in clinical nursing practice

Leadership Styles -- Mentor Observations

Primary Form of Leadership

My mentor's leadership style is mostly democratic or participative. This form of leadership is particularly effective in a clinical setting as it encourages teamwork, collaboration and use of the collective experiences of multiple skilled staff members. This leadership style may also be described as democratic, where the leader encourages participation and input from other staff members and followers.

Participative leadership enables multiple members of a group or team to participate in the decision making process, which can strengthen a groups achievements, motivation and dedication (Clark, 1997). While ultimately the mentor has the authority to make final decisions, he or she does so guided or influenced by the wants, needs and desires of employees. This form of leadership is particularly useful when knowledgeable and skillful employees interact in the workplace and have knowledge that may help the leader make informed decisions.

Styles Appealing To Follow ship Style and Why

The most appealing style is a democratic or participative one because it encourages team cohesiveness and engages all members of the staff in the decision making process. This form of leadership acknowledges the skills, talents and abilities of each member of the staff and encourages comprehensive care that results from the collective experiences of many (rather than the experiences of a few). In such an environment employees often feel more empowered and willing to participate or collaborate to facilitate better patient care and patient outcomes in a clinical care setting. This form of leadership often encourages greater team work and motivates employees to work together in a positive manner.

The next best form of leadership would be a laissez-fair or free reign style, which would only make sense if the employee had more experience or skills in a particular setting than their supervisor. This form of leadership can be very empowering when used in the right situation. Rather than relinquish the supervisor of his or her authority, this leadership style takes into consideration the collective experiences of staff and encourages highly skilled employees to make decisions.

Reference:

Clark, D. (1997 -- May). "Leadership Styles." 24, October 2005:

http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/leader/leadstl.html