Aleisha Gordon, Matron, Trauma and Orthopaedics, reflects on the significant influences that both her Mother and Grandmother have had in shaping the foundations of her career. Having been appointed into her Matron position at the age of 30, Aleisha shares the importance of aspirations, understanding the bigger picture and recognising that you can’t be an expert in everything. This is a great episode for anyone looking to develop their self-awareness.
3 Quotes to lead by...
1. UNDERSTAND THE BIGGER PICTURE
‘I always just wanted to perform well in the position that I was in and one matron that I worked with had always said work above your station, always aspire and be well versed in what’s happening on the ranks above and around you… I think it’s always important to understand the rationale behind the instructions that are being given.’
Q. Reflect on the tasks you complete daily. Do you understand the rationale behind them?
2. BEING AN EXPERT IN EVERYTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE
‘I would never advise somebody else that I expect them to be an expert in everything that goes on because it’s impossible to be an expert when you’re looking after such a huge patch.’
Q. Are your team aware of the resources available to them to support their development?
3. WE ALL WORK DIFFERENTLY
‘One thing that I’m working on is understanding that not everybody works like me. So, this particular team member does not like lists and does not like spreadsheets… what it took was conversation, understanding and empathy on my part to understand what’s important to each of us, what the priorities were and how we can achieve them.’
Q. Are you aware of how your team members prefer to work?
External Resources
Leadership Quality Seeing the Bigger Picture!
Why It's Important Not to Know Everything
5 tips for handling different work styles among employees
