3.1. Leadership as Position: Authority Gradient (e-Learn)

Let's look at the key points regarding Authority Gradients.

• Authority Gradient refers to the difference in authority between senior and more junior team members.
• Teams led by a domineering leader experience a steep Authority Gradient.
• In steep Authority Gradients, other team members are more reluctant to express concerns, ask questions or clarify instructions.
• Shallow Authority Gradients make it easier for every team member to comment and contribute, therefore improving patient safety and quality of care.
• People are more likely to respond to the request to share concerns in a shallow Authority Gradient team than in a steep Authority Gradient, particularly when we are civil towards each other
• Cultural norms can affect how people interpret and work with Authority Gradients.
• The Authority Gradient can be reduced by engaging in mundane conversations to build relationships, engaging in dialogue, being open, questioning with curiosity rather than judgement and developing your ability to disagree where necessary.