Why it's important to build relationships and believe in yourself
Research reveals interesting themes on self-efficacy for new nurse managers
Kate Hodgson's Master's thesis (Developing Self-efficacy: an exploration of the experiences of new nurse managers) has nurses thinking about the importance of relationships and mentors with respect to shaping their careers.
It has also reinforced the more nurses believe in themselves, the more likely they are to step into a challenging role.
"Interesting themes emerged, including the fact that every single participant was tapped on the shoulder. Their leadership abilities were identified by someone else and they were encouraged to apply for their current position," says Hodgson. "They didn't recognize they had leadership ability until someone told them. Having that belief shared with them got them starting to think, 'Maybe I can do this'."
Themes like this demonstrate the power of relationships in building a career. And the importance of being mindful of what we share with people and how.
Why?
Hodgson explains that there is often one line that someone shares with you about your strengths that stays with you.
She has one herself - a moment where her manager identified how Hodgson's career might best progress.
"That one line has stayed with me, personally," says Hodgson. "The important takeaway for me is that nurses need to be aware that people remember what we say."
Hodgson is currently in the process of trying to publish her thesis, and has presented on her findings in different settings. She hopes to further present her research at conferences as opportunities to do so become available.
What's her biggest takeaway from her research?
"The importance of that one line and the need to have relationships. Mentoring often comes horizontally from a fellow nurse manager instead of vertical or hierarchical," she says. "It's important to take time to build those relationships, mentor each other and pay it forward."