Emergency Medical Service managers have diverse responsibilities. Not only are they in charge of making sure that day-to-day operations run smoothly, but they also must be prepared to coordinate multi-agency responses when major incidents occur. A few of the many hats they wear include administrator, financial officer, human resources expert, and quality control inspector. Because the job is so multifaceted, it does not attract one single certain personality type over another. Thus, you may encounter any of the following five managerial leadership styles in the clients you insure.
Authoritarian
People with innate leadership abilities often come across as being authoritarian. They do not hesitate to make decisions and expect others to obey their commands without question. This style is effective in crises and instills faith in the organization. However, workers can feel demoralized when authoritarian leaders use the same leadership style for mundane operations that would benefit from multiple viewpoints.
Cooperative
Cooperative leaders are the opposites of authoritarian ones. Instead of making all the choices themselves, they work to involve everyone on the team in decision-making. This strategy works well for competent EMS workers who already have good working relationships with other members of the group. It is less effective in situations where subordinates are unmotivated or do not communicate well.
Coaching
A manager with a coaching style prefers to be a guide on the side rather than a leader in the front. People gifted in coaching can make a tremendous difference in the lives of others by knowing just what to say to make them do their best work. The downside of coaching management is that it does not work when team members need quick direction in an unfamiliar or dangerous situation.
Transformative
Some managers step into their positions and immediately begin making long-needed changes. They seem to sense the core problems that keep an EMS organization from excelling and set about solving them. People with this leadership style can seem like miracle workers. However, they occasionally try to fix what is not broken and make changes that others do not like.
Laissez-Faire
Laissez-faire leaders prefer to focus on administrative aspects of their managerial positions and leave other EMS workers to solve problems on their own. Some workers enjoy this level of independence, especially when they are highly skilled and experienced. However, there is the risk that less scrupulous employees may take advantage of the lack of supervision.
Certain personalities and styles of leadership are better suited to some situations than others, but there is no one right way to lead an EMS team. If workers are satisfied with their jobs and the community feels safe under the care of its EMS services, then the existing management style is working.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.