Name
Western Governors University
D024 Professional Presence and Influence
Prof. Name
Date
Reflecting on the learning journey throughout this course and the completion of Phase 1 activities, I have developed a deeper understanding of leadership principles, effective leadership behaviors, and the significance of mindfulness in healthcare practice. The course placed strong emphasis on intentional self-reflection, which enabled me to critically analyze my leadership style within the hospital setting and recognize areas needing improvement. This deliberate process of reflection has supported my professional growth and boosted my confidence as a nurse leader.
One of the tangible outcomes of Phase 1 was creating a professional LinkedIn profile. This experience allowed me to start building a network with other nurse leaders and healthcare professionals. I discovered the importance of using digital platforms to increase professional visibility, encourage collaboration, and stay informed about leadership opportunities in healthcare. I intend to consistently leverage LinkedIn as a tool for ongoing professional development and networking.
A vital lesson I learned from this course concerns the power of therapeutic listening and intentional communication. Enhancing these skills has improved my interactions with colleagues, especially those who might be resistant or disengaged. When addressing issues such as incomplete tasks or noncompliance, I consciously changed my approach from asking “why” questions to “what” questions. Instead of assigning blame, I focus on uncovering obstacles and offering support by asking questions like, “What barriers are preventing this task from being completed?” or “What resources do you need to succeed?” This method has helped build trust, foster collaboration, and improve staff engagement as well as patient satisfaction. While I continue to sharpen my active listening and mindfulness, the strategies I learned have laid a solid foundation for my leadership development.
Reflecting on my Phase 1 Clinical Practice Experience (CPE) activities, I have noticed significant growth in my professional presence. I have become more aware of how my communication style, behaviors, and values influence others’ perceptions of me as a leader. Throughout my nursing career, I often cited my motivation as “to help people and make a difference.” However, the course readings and reflective exercises helped me explore this motivation on a deeper level.
As a result, I now have clearer insight into my personal strengths, areas for growth, and long-term professional goals. This clarity has reinforced my sense of purpose and strengthened my commitment to ethical, compassionate, and effective leadership within healthcare. Developing a strong professional presence has also improved my ability to lead authentically and consistently align my actions with my core values.
Updating my LinkedIn profile was a transformative part of this course. Previously, I had not prioritized maintaining a professional online presence. However, in today’s interconnected healthcare environment, an up-to-date profile is essential for networking, career advancement, and establishing professional credibility.
The most challenging part was writing the “Summary” section. Initially, I felt uncertain about how to clearly express my professional identity. Through reflection, I was able to articulate my passion for nursing, my leadership philosophy, and my career goals, while acknowledging the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Completing the profile helped me feel connected to a wider professional community and reinforced my sense of belonging among nurse leaders. Moreover, exposure to recruiters and career opportunities has increased my optimism and motivation as I approach the end of my academic program.
To maintain my professional growth and leadership development, I plan to engage actively with established support and accountability systems. Maintaining regular communication with my mentor is a priority, as mentorship offers encouragement, constructive feedback, and professional guidance. Although initiating regular phone conversations can sometimes be difficult, I understand their importance in sustaining accountability and momentum.
Additionally, I intend to use course instructors as academic and professional resources whenever I encounter challenges in coursework or leadership practice. Knowing that experienced professionals are available for guidance increases my confidence and willingness to seek help when needed. These support systems will be vital for my continued leadership development.
| Question | Answer / Reflection |
|---|---|
| What have I learned about leadership? | Leadership requires mindfulness, self-awareness, and effective communication, emphasizing supportive, solution-focused approaches instead of blame. |
| How has therapeutic communication helped me? | It enhanced professional relationships by replacing “why” questions with “what” questions, fostering understanding, collaboration, and improving staff and patient satisfaction. |
| How have I developed my professional presence? | Through self-reflection, better communication, and a clearer understanding of my values, strengths, and career vision. |
| What impact did updating my LinkedIn profile have? | It improved my professional identity, expanded networking opportunities, increased career visibility, and fostered a sense of community among nurse leaders. |
| How do I plan to maintain accountability? | By engaging regularly with my mentor and instructors for guidance, encouragement, and expert feedback. |
American Nurses Association. (2021). Nursing: Scope and standards of practice (4th ed.). ANA Publishing.
Brown, B. (2018). Dare to lead: Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts. Random House.
D024 Phase 1 Reflection on Leadership and Growth Strategies
Goleman, D., Boyatzis, R., & McKee, A. (2013). Primal leadership: Unleashing the power of emotional intelligence. Harvard Business Review Press.
Sherman, R. O. (2022). The nurse leader coach: Become the boss no one wants to leave. Sigma Theta Tau International.
