Power is the ability to influence. Empowerment is the process of sharing power with others so that they are able to exercise their own power or influence.
Exercising power requires the nurse to feel powerful and to think of oneself as powerful. Nervous Nellies and Disorganized Dans do not project images related to power.
Dress for the situation. Neat scrubs are appropriate for the clinical area, not for other settings. At the bedside or in the boardroom looking confident and powerful is shaped by the nurse’s clothing and grooming. You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.
Attending a professional organization meeting, a conference, or a luncheon meeting is not an excuse to “dress down.”
At least 90% of our message lies in HOW we speak, not the words we say. Tone of voice, pace, and volume are important, as is the pitch of one’s voice. Some leaders do well to take some vocal coaching to ensure that pitch, pace, and tone of voice are perceived as powerful.
Body language can communicate volumes about us. Gestures that are too dramatic are viewed as hostile; posture must be relaxed but not sloppy: stand tall and erect. Make eye contact with others. In a large audience make contact with different people as you speak, sweeping your view around the room. If standing, do not act as if you are standing above the others. That can be interpreted as hostile.
Belief in oneself, one’s value to an organization, and necessary skepticism are essential to fulfulling a commitment to project a powerful image.
Sometimes nurses are their own worst enemy with self-defeating attitudes and a failure to promote their profession.
Never stop learning. Many states mandate continuing education; nursing certifications require CE, but engage in noncredit continuing education for the joy of learning. Continue your academic education in nursing to seek graduate and doctoral education.
Sometimes being courteous to those who are rude and demanding is difficult, but being a professional demands courtesy even in difficult situations.
We all feel better when those around us smile. Frowning can be interpreted as disinterest and/or disapproval.
Some of the most powerful learning occurs as a result of our mistakes.
Step up to the plate to work with others to solve the problems of the organization in which you work, the organizations to which you belong, and the community in which you live.
Join your state nurses association, the state affiliate of the American Nurses Association, and a specialty nursing organization. See mentors early in your career; be a mentor as you gain nursing experience and expertise.
Feedback is critical to your success. Learn to differentiate between constructive and destructive criticism and learn from both kinds.
Political astuteness at both the state and federal level is a critical skill to cultivate. Read about political and policy matters related to nursing in journals and professional organization Websites. Learn about policy and politics in nursing.
Nurses are healthcare experts. Share that expertise in the political arena.
