Susan, an RN in the ED, would like to pursue leadership roles in her c

QUESTION

Susan, an RN in the ED, would like to pursue leadership roles in her career. She is frustrated that others in her working environment seem to pay little attention to her creative ideas or place her in informal leadership positions.

As her colleague, you want to provide her with helpful feedback. Which of the following statements will provide feedback as to how she might communicate power and demonstrate that she is capable of handling other leadership responsibilities?

a. “I find your soft voice and manners very reassuring and calming to patients.”
b. “Try using a wider vocabulary and big words so that people will think that you are knowledgeable.”
c. “At times, you tend to slump and avoid eye contact when you are talking with colleagues and families.”
d. “Don’t worry about what others think of you. If you feel like saying something, say it, even if it hurts other people’s feelings.”

ANSWER:

ANS: C
A powerful image comes from thinking of oneself as powerful and effective, and this is communicated through posture, maintaining eye contact, treating others with courtesy and respect, and using a firm, confident voice with vocabulary that is appropriate (which does not necessarily involve using big-sounding words).