“Process models favor the bureaucratic over the charismatic, and have a number of advantages over trait models. For one thing, they suggest that leadership is learnable: you just observe the process.” –
The New Yorker
Doctors are often accused of not being strong leaders or savvy businessmen/businesswomen. But that assumption is built on a flawed idea of what leadership really is.
As the New Yorker article points out, our culture tends to celebrate the “rock star” CEO—the larger-than-life personality who dominates headlines. In reality, true leadership is far less glamorous. It’s about doing the small things right, day after day.
That’s what we call Process Leadership. It doesn’t rely on charisma. It relies on discipline, consistency, and attention to detail—qualities that most doctors have been honing since medical school. When practiced well, Process Leadership produces results that outlast any short-lived star power.
The good news? Process Leadership isn’t some rare gift. It’s a learnable skill. And in many ways, doctors are already uniquely equipped to master it. Their training is built on systems and protocols. Every diagnosis, every surgery, every patient interaction requires methodical preparation, careful execution, and consistent follow-up. Doctors understand that small lapses can lead to big consequences, so they learn to respect process, precision, and accountability. These same qualities, when applied outside the exam room, are the foundation of effective leadership.
Instead of chasing the myth of the charismatic leader, doctors can lean into their strengths. By embracing Process Leadership, they have the tools not just to provide excellent care, but to guide their practices and teams toward long-term, sustainable success.
