Leadership Perspectives - Navigating the Nuances of Authority and Influence

We're excited to welcome Jess Nuutinen back to our leadership series with her insightful exploration of the critical distinction between being a boss and being a leader. Following her previous contribution on shared governance, Jess now turns her analytical lens to the subtle yet profound differences that separate positional authority from true leadership. In "Boss vs. Leader: Understanding the Key Differences," she skillfully dissects how these contrasting approaches affect team dynamics, organizational culture, and long-term success. Jess's thoughtful examination of authority versus influence, task-orientation versus people-orientation, and control versus empowerment provides valuable guidance for healthcare professionals at every level. Her practical wisdom reminds us that effective leadership transcends titles and hierarchies—a timely message that complements our growing collection of leadership perspectives. As you read her compelling analysis, we invite you to reflect on your own leadership style and consider how you might incorporate more leadership qualities into your daily practice.