Work

Enhancing Non‐Technical Competencies in Otolaryngology Trainees With a Novel Leadership Curriculum

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Leadership skills are essential for physicians, yet surgical training often lacks structured education in leadership development. Otolaryngology-head and neck surgery (OHNS) residents frequently navigate multidisciplinary interactions, high-pressure decision-making, and complex team dynamics, highlighting the need for targeted leadership development. To address this gap, we developed and evaluated a needs-based leadership curriculum for OHNS residents. METHODS: Three sessions were offered to OHNS residents covering: (1) understanding personal leadership style, (2) navigating difficult conversations, and (3) public speaking. All sessions were led by content experts. Pre- and post-session surveys assessed the effectiveness of each session using a five-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree; 5 = strongly agree). Wilcoxon rank tests compared pre- and post-session survey data. RESULTS: Ninety-six percent of residents participated in at least one session. Survey data demonstrated significant improvements across multiple areas. Participants reported increased comfort in adapting leadership styles (pre: 3.28; post: 4.52, p < 0.0001), better understanding of diverse communication preferences (pre: 3.81; post: 4.24, p < 0.033), and improved comfort in initiating difficult conversations (pre: 2.88; post: 3.81, p < 0.045). Across all sessions, over 90% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that each session was a good use of their time and valuable to their future practice. CONCLUSIONS: This novel leadership curriculum enhanced participants' abilities to adapt leadership styles, understand diverse communication preferences, and navigate difficult conversations. Integrating leadership development into residency addresses a notable gap in traditional surgical training.

Source: The Laryngoscope

DOI: 10.1002/lary.70121