Interview Essay

“Leaders are those individuals who are out front taking risks, attempting to achieve shared goals, and inspiring others to action” (Marquis & Huston Pg. 40). The writer had the pleasure of interviewing Mrs. Olaleye-Abner, a registered nurse at the department of behavioral health and developmental disability. She has been a nurse for 30 years and currently in the position as an RN supervisor. She works night shift starting from 11pm to 7:30am. The writer choose to interview her because of her wealth of experience in the nursing field.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability is a publicly owned facility of the state of Georgia. It provides treatment and support services to people of all ages with mental disabilities

“Motivation is the force within the individual that influences or directs behavior” (Marquis & Huston). She stated that there are various incentives that are put in place to motivate workers to put their best in the job. She stated that staffs that are doing well on their jobs are recognized and appreciated when they have done something that is exceptional. One of the way this is done is by allocating a special parking spot right in front of building for the employee of the month. This serve as a way to encourage them not to relent in their effort in providing quality patient care and customer satisfaction. She stated that motivation is very important because working with unmotivated staff may be difficult and makes the job more stressful.

Mrs. Olaleye-Abner explained that despite that she loves her job as an RN supervisor, she faces a lot of challenges in her leadership role. She stated that one of her biggest challenges as a nurse leader is managing people that have different attitude and behaviors toward their job. She gave some examples that some of the staff will be sleeping at work during night shift. When they are corrected on this behavior they take it personal and see her as a mean individual. She stated that despite their attitude she ensures they perform best practice regardless if they like or dislike her for doing her