B2 Non-refereed book chapter or chapter in a compilation book
Identifying my cancer nursing leadership role through mentoring
Authors: Sulosaari, Virpi; Oldenmenger, Wendy
Editors: Rollins Gantz, Nancy; Hafsteinsdóttir, Thóra B.
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Publication year: 2023
Book title : Mentoring in Nursing through Narrative Stories Across the World
Journal name in source: Mentoring in Nursing through Narrative Stories Across the World
First page : 527
Last page: 533
ISBN: 978-3-031-25203-7
eISBN: 978-3-031-25204-4
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25204-4_71
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: No Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : No Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-25204-4_71
A successful career in cancer nursing requires a commitment to lifelong learning. Mentoring can be accomplished through formal programs and informal relationships, both of which are based on mutual respect, trust, and a willingness to learn. We developed our mentor-mentee relationship during the time in four phases: Phase 1 was to get to know each other. The main purpose of our first meetings was to get to know each other. It was also important to establish a relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and a willingness to learn. As the starting point for the mentorship was the field of cancer nursing, we had a mutual understanding of the specific nursing setting, and also on teaching. Phase 2 was to create opportunities to grow. The first step was to create a professional development plan and how the mentor could help to achieve the established goals. In our discussions, we talked about strengths and weaknesses in leadership, but also how to deal with challenging situations that a leader inevitably will face. Phase 3 was to conduct more in-depth discussions. We had reflective discussions about the mutual philosophy of leadership. During this phase, our discussions became a two-way dialogue. Phase 4 was about finding clarity in goals and vision for leadership. The discussions changed from a focus on skills and activities to a vision and a clear focus on becoming a leader in cancer nursing. As the relationship evolved, the discussions were changed to more mutual and at the same level.
