Exploring Connections Between Leadership and Management in the Health Sector: Identifying True Leaders and Factors Contributing to their Development: Basics of Leadership

Abstract

Understanding the central distinctions and connections between the roles of leadership and management and their impact on the context of health service delivery is crucial. Self-awareness, cultural competencies, emotional intelligence, and ethical behavior are key traits at the heart of a good leader, regardless of their favored leadership style. Moreover, three key strategies are necessary for leadership development to occur: an education pathway, mentorship or coaching, and a publication or research appraisal, if deemed appropriate by the individual. With age, experience, and also the learning from mistakes of mismatched attitudes, leadership styles, and behaviors, some of these traits evolve in both senior managers and leaders in pursuit of greater effectiveness for the organization and the employees. Education, workshops, more mentorship, and continuous professional growth among senior management would promote authentic and effective healthcare leadership.