The Role of a Leader

This six-part video series is designed in particular for those who have been in a rural health leadership role for two years or less, but it is also relevant to leaders who have been in their roles for longer or who may be training or mentoring new leaders. The series may also serve as a valuable resource for those who may be transitioning to a leadership role within the next year.

Description and Topics Covered

In this module, we’ll explore what it means to be a leader. We’ll take a look at some of the common challenges experienced by those taking on their first leadership role and share a few strategies for looking out for your own well-being as well as that of your team.

What makes a good leader?
Leaders across the organization
Making the transition from team member to team leader
Your leadership style
Common leadership challenges
Managing yourself and others
Ensuring your personal well-being

Reflection and Discussion Questions

Why did you choose to take on a leadership role? How do you see yourself having a positive impact on your team and your organization?
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as you transitioned into a leadership role? How have you addressed it? If you’re still struggling with this challenge, who might you lean on for support or guidance?
How have you learned to be a leader? What role models and mentors have helped shape your approach to leadership?

Recommended Activities

Complete the Leadership Styles Inventory – and hang on to your results. We’ll refer to this periodically throughout the series. And if you’re completing this series with colleagues, share your results with them!
Complete the Leadership Self-Assessment to rate your knowledge and skills in each of the areas mentioned in this module. This tool will also help you identify the areas where you’d most like to strengthen your knowledge and skills – and how might you do that (aside from this series, of course!).
Talk to leaders you admire about their perspective on leadership. Some questions you might ask:
Why have you chosen to be in a leadership role? What do you like about it? What’s most challenging?
What do you see as your unique contribution as a leader?
What advice would you give to those new to leadership?
Take a look at your organizational chart. What positions would you categorize as frontline leaders? Mid-level leaders? Senior leaders? A blend of more than one of these?