4.2 Basic Concepts
Organizational Culture
The formal leaders of an organization provide a sense of direction and overall guidance for their employees by establishing organizational vision, mission, and values statements. An organization’s vision statement defines why the organization exists, describes how the organization is unique and different from similar organizations, and specifies where the leaders hope the organization is going. The mission statement describes how the organization will fulfill its vision and establishes a common course of action for future endeavours. See Figure 4.1[1] for an illustration of a mission statement. A values statement is the organization’s stated values that assist with the achievement of its vision and mission and provide strategic guidelines for decision-making, both internally and externally, by members of the organization. The vision, mission, and value statements are expressed in a concise and clear manner that is easily understood by members of the organization and the public.[2]
Organizational culture refers to the implicit values and beliefs that reflect the norms and traditions of an organization. An organization’s vision, mission, and value statements are the foundation of organizational culture. Because individual organizations have their own vision, mission, and value statements, each organization has a different culture.[3]
As health care continues to evolve and new models of care are introduced, nursing managers must develop innovative approaches that meet the needs of change while aligning with that organization’s vision, mission, and values. Leaders embrace the organization’s mission, identify how individuals’ work contributes to it, and ensure that outcomes advance the organization’s mission and purpose. Leaders use vision, mission, and values statements for guidance when determining appropriate responses to critical events and unforeseen challenges that are common in a complex health care system. Successful organizations require employees to be committed to following these strategic guidelines during the course of their work activities. Employees who understand the relationship between their own work and the mission and purpose of the organization will contribute to a stronger health care system that excels in providing first-class patient care. The vision, mission, and values provide a common organization-wide frame of reference for decision-making for both leaders and staff.[4]
Learning Activity
Investigate the mission, vision, and values of a potential employer, as you would do prior to an interview for a job position.
Reflective Questions
- How well do the organization’s vision and values align with your personal values regarding health care?
- How well does the organization’s mission align with your professional objective in your resume?
Followership
Followership is described as the upward influence of individuals on their leaders and their teams. The actions of followers have an importa