Fact: 80% of Employees Who Are Dissatisfied with Immediate Supervisor Are Disengaged (Carnegie Survey, 2013) Think of individuals whom you feel are really exceptional leaders, you can even use a historical figure like Abraham Lincoln for example. Make a list of adjectives or short phrases to describe a really good leader. Now make a second list that describes a really good manager. Put the lists side by side and do two assessments; note whether your answers are traits (a born leader) or behaviors. Next compare and contrast the lists to help understand how you view these roles differently from one another. Start the discussion at the beginning of the module to ensure that the discussion can move forward throughout the module. The first question asks your opinion so you can begin immediately. For subsequent questions please meaningfully integrate your readings including the text, articles, and module notes in all.
1. In your opinion, what are the significant differences between what a manager does and what a leader does? Are they one in the same role, or can they be different? Discuss with your classmates a summary of what you discovered from your list comparisons. In a 2013 study published in the Journal of Business Ethics, it was reported that “leaders’ behaviors are related to followers’ behaviors which then influence employees’ attitudes”. The leaders’ behaviors improved work engagement and decreased work-to-family conflict. Combining this information with your readings, consider:
2. What types of leaders would be most successful in the health care environment? Be sure to consider the unique features of health care; the work environment (i.e., high stress, high risk), the product (health care), the employee demographics (diverse)?
3. What are two of the biggest take-aways (important points) for you that would improve the effectiveness of health care managers and leaders in particular?
4. What positive behavior changes do you feel are most important for a manager, a leader, or an employee?