Responsive Leadership in Social Services

Abstract

Responsive Leadership in Social Services: A Practical Approach for Optimizing Engagement and Performance emphasizes the importance of effective supervision as a key component of quality leadership. The Responsive Leadership Approach considers employee needs, values, goals, and strengths to optimize worker performance. It is posited that when leaders integrate and operationalize the meaning embedded in the “employee story,” they improve employee engagement and work performance as well as advance their own leadership ability. Discovery tools such as the Key Performance Motivators Scale, Preferred Leadership Profile, and Strengths Index are provided. The impact of operationalizing important values and using a strengths-based approach on organizational climate and employee morale is explored. Active listening and empathic response are discussed as practical methods to discover employee meaning. Techniques for dealing with “difficult” employees and undesirable attitudes and behaviors are described. This book is a valuable resource for developing the leadership capacities of first-time and experienced health and social services supervisors.