Know Your ABCs

We have just published an alphabet for Managers Who Lead. ABCs is a simple and user-friendly lexicon for busy managers who lead. It draws from the combined experience and knowledge of MSH staff who work in different public health programs and projects around the world. The staff who contributed to this booklet share an understanding that leadership and management are critical functions to make sure that quality health service delivery produces intended outcomes.

Each letter of the alphabet that we feature includes a definition, a quote, questions to ask oneself and an example of the verb in context. For example, A stands for Aligning which means bringing people together around a common goal or shared vision to ultimately improve health outcomes. There is a saying used in some parts of Africa – If the lion wants to eat mango, he must make friends with the birds,’ that seems like a good illustration of what we are talking about.

In the Healthy Communities and Municipalities II project in Peru we can see aligning in action: local leaders, men and women, are aligning families and district/municipal officials around healthy lifestyles, using management tools to track progress and holding all actors accountable. As a result the participating communities are now more optimistic about their futures: having healthy communities and families, and living a just and healthy life.

So how can you get better at aligning? Here are some questions to ponder: Who else wants to accomplish the same health goals or objectives? How can you get others interested in working with your team to achieve health outcomes? How are your words aligned with your actions as a leader in public health?

We hope that you will use this ABCs to remind and refresh yourself about being a ‘Manager Who Leads’ for at least 26 verbs that we believe are important for managing and leading well.

Click here for the full version.