Provide a response of at least 50 words to below response in apa format witn in-text citations:
The concept of internal consistency between words and actions is called integrity. Leadership integrity has been defined as the perceived pattern of alignment between the leader’s words and deeds or the extent that leaders are seen as practicing what they preach (Leroy, 2012). I have had occasion to witness this type of leadership behavioral integrity many times during my practicum experiences from my preceptor over the past 9 weeks. Since she assumed the role of CNO in her organization in 2017, she has espoused the importance of compassionate care, teamwork, collaboration and the critical role of RNs in the rehabilitation of patients. During countless meetings at all levels, with employees from all departments of the organization, I have witnessed her providing support, guidance, nonjudgmental critique and a willingness to roll up her sleeves and work alongside nurses to get the job done. The text states that the greatest threat to the servant leader is the craving for power (DelHousaye, 2004). I would argue that power is not something that needs to be craved, even by servant leaders, for they possess it already. The danger in power lies in how it is utilized. We all possess power in some form. When used with others in mind and for the good of others, power can be a positive thing. When used with integrity, honesty and charity, power can be a leadership tool.
Original Question:
Servant leaders must be internally consistent with their words and actions. Describe a mentor that you have had that displayed this kind of credibility. Share an example of what you witnessed from this person. Based on the text, contrast your response to the secular view of power.
Expert Solution Preview
Integrity is a crucial aspect of leadership, defined as the alignment between a leader’s words and actions (Leroy, 2012). In my previous practicum experiences, I had the privilege of observing a mentor who exemplified this integrity in their leadership role as a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) within their organization. Since assuming the position in 2017, the CNO consistently emphasized the importance of compassionate care, teamwork, collaboration, and the critical role of registered nurses (RNs) in patient rehabilitation.
During numerous meetings at various organizational levels and with employees from all departments, I witnessed the CNO providing unwavering support, guidance, and nonjudgmental critique to foster a positive work environment. What impressed me the most was their willingness to actively engage alongside nurses, leading by example and demonstrating the willingness to roll up their sleeves to complete necessary tasks. This visible dedication to teamwork created a culture of collaboration and instilled a sense of accountability among the staff.
Contrasting this experience with the secular view of power mentioned in the text (DelHousaye, 2004), I argue that power, although not craved by servant leaders, does exist within them. However, it is crucial to emphasize that the danger lies in how power is utilized, rather than merely possessing it. Power, in any form, can be used positively when considering the needs and welfare of others and when harnessed with integrity, honesty, and charity. Therefore, power can be transformed into an effective leadership tool when wielded for the betterment of others and the organization as a whole.
In conclusion, the mentor I observed during my practicum consistently exhibited integrity in their leadership by aligning their words and actions. This was evident through their support, guidance, and active participation in collaboration with the nursing staff. By employing power with integrity, they were able to create a positive work culture and foster effective teamwork.
