Words from our WICMEL fellows Part 1

I was first made aware of the WICM Emerging Leadership Programme when an email dropped into my inbox in May 2019.  It was from Rosie Baruah ( previous WICM Chair), telling me about the launch of the programme, and urging me to consider applying.  My initial response was one of enthusiasm and intrigue, but very quickly the usual fears and concerns, associated with imposter syndrome, took over and I rapidly parked the idea of applying, as I had several doubts about whether it was too soon in my career to consider this type of programme, and whether I would even have enough on my CV to be shortlisted or successful (You all know that us ICM types hate to fail at anything!).

However, something about the programme stuck a chord and niggled at the back of my mind and upon revisiting the available literature on the FICM website. I decided it was too good an opportunity to miss, and (backed by further very positive correspondence with Rosie) I decided to throw my hat in the ring….and I am very glad I did. 

By taking part in the Emerging Leadership Programme, I was expecting to develop my leadership style through a variety of channels that are all part of the programme: The “science” and theory behind effective leadership through the Open University course, mentorship during the programme via a personal mentor of my choosing and learning by example through attendance at the WICM days and Board and Committee meetings held at the College, and by peer support/ discussion with other WICM ELP fellows at our quarterly Skype meetings. 

The Emerging Leadership Programme has not disappointed. In fact, I would say it has far exceeded my expectations. One of the greatest revelations, for me, has been that I am actually a leader in my current capacity at work, in ways that I had never formally considered leadership. I’ve realised leadership comes in many guises. This has undoubtedly increased my confidence in making my voice heard in wider circles.   I am now able to reflect much more effectively and rationally on my leadership style, and consider how to obtain the best results from different teams in different situations. 

Furthermore, my eyes have been opened with regard to the work done by FICM and WICM, and the multitude of opportunities available to me.  I have realised very quickly that those on the FICM Board are all very nice, normal intensivists who work extremely hard, but also play hard and have lives outside of ICM. They are not superhuman consultants who wear their pants outside their trousers (I don’t think!), destined to be Board members from their earliest days at medical school.  They have normal jobs in ICM, they have spouses, children, pets, friends and enjoy playing candy crush…..While that I am not suggesting that I will be pursuing the role of FICM Dean or Vice Dean in the near future (Alison & Danny your jobs are safe for a long time yet!), the Emerging Leadership Programme has helped me to see that the opportunities available to me in my career are endless, and the only thing holding me back is myself and this thing called imposter syndrome, which I continue to try to rid myself of! Wish me luck, I’ll let you know how it goes!

When I first heard about the WICM Emerging Leadership Programme, I was unsure whether it was designed with someone like me in mind. Like many trainees before me, I had been advised on several occasions that I should be ‘more confident’ in my abilities. Whilst this did not hinder me in progressing through training, it left an impression that perhaps I had the wrong kind of personality for succeeding in any significant leadership positions in the future. However, as I embarked upon my new consultant post, I wanted to take on various non-clinical roles to contribute to my department and specialty, as well as for my own personal development. The WICM ELP turned out to be an ideal solution to support me in achieving this goal.

Through mentoring, practical sessions and online learning, I have had a great opportunity to broaden my knowledge and skills. Even seemingly simple advice on how to set agendas and effectively chair meetings has been invaluable, as it’s something we often don’t receive any formal training for, but frequently use as consultants. The Faculty have been incredibly supportive throughout the whole process; being able to attend FICM committee meetings and speak to Board members about their leadership experience has really highlighted that a good leader really doesn’t require a defined personality type (or an abundance of confidence!) – it’s about understanding your own character, and using your individual skillset to the best advantage for the situation you are dealing with. Furthermore, it’s taught me that you don’t have to know absolutely everything (a rather unrealistic expectation many of us place upon ourselves when becoming consultants!) to be able to lead a project or team successfully – there’s no shame in asking for support and advice from those with more experience; in fact, this can really help you to engage and bond with your team.

Overall, the fellowship has provided me with a wealth of knowledge that I use on a daily basis in the leadership roles I have since taken on. It’s been great getting to know the other fellows, and sharing our experiences and progress over the last year – if you’re considering applying for the WICMEL programme in the future, I would highly recommend you to go for it!!

Feeling inspired?

We will release part 2 very shortly, if the words of our first WICMEL programme fellows have inspired you, take a look at the programme page on our website and get in touch with us if you have any questions about applying. The window for the 2021 programme closes on 30 May 2021.