Which is more important, working towards an effective leader or an effective manager? Explain your answer. I think it is more important to work for an effective leader rather than an effective manager. A person must first become an effective leader before becoming a manager. Working on a unit with an effective leader, nurses will address the leader first before the manager, this is how the chain of command works. This will keep things tidy and hopefully a solution will be found more quickly. In addition, to become a manager, you must demonstrate leadership qualities to access this position. 3. Investigate whether there is a peer assistance program for substance abuse and/or mental illness in your state. Find out how the program is administered. What is its success rate? How does the program help nurses?