Moving into a leadership role can be an exhilarating and proud moment; it can also be a daunting one. No matter whether you’re paid or volunteer, working for a department large or small, all new leaders face similar career development opportunities and administrative challenges. To be a successful new leader, you will need to identify the support systems, processes and tools to maximize the opportunities and clear the hurdles.
FireRescue1’s Fire Leader Playbook is one such tool to increase your effectiveness as a new leader, helping enhance your leadership KSAs, develop trust among your crewmembers, and build your confidence. The Playbook offers a wealth of resources, as you grow into your position of authority and move beyond basic management and supervision skills to lead and inspire with integrity and passion.
Go talk to your people and establish your expectations early
Upon taking the reins, the Greensburg (Pa.) VFD chief made it his mission to improve firefighter safety and health
Start your new member on the right foot by getting to know them better and sharing key insights about the profession
Many new officers want to fix everything right away, but change for the sake of change isn't a viable game plan
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Detailing surprises, challenges and goals for this critical career transition
The book that changed my career trajectory, my first-year chief plan, and lessons on relationship-building
Reflecting on life-changing moments, decision-making process, and advice to my younger self
Lessons from one year navigating mid-level leadership
“If you can stare down a hallway and look the devil in the face, surely you can walk into an office and talk to the chief”
The legacy of followership is true to the past and focused on the future
Two fire service leaders demonstrate the humility and honor in sharing these sentiments
Leaders who model “not knowing” foster environments where members feel they can explore new ideas and offer solutions
In a world of gradation and perpetual change, fire chiefs must constantly adapt and accept new roles
You might think you could do the job better than the current officer, but leadership takes skill, earned respect and experience
From setting clear expectations to sharing feedback, simple actions can go a long way to establish yourself as a trusted team member
Motivating others to achieve their maximum potential involves deflecting negativity and focusing on what’s good
Before you start checking boxes, focus first on building your team and fostering crew cohesion
Five steps to establish a solid track record, plus key legal and ethical issues to consider
What matters most is that we continue to work on ourselves every day – these rules can help us stay on track
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