Leadership Style
What sort of leader do I see myself as? I think I’ve learned a lot.
Effective leadership is a subjective thing, but here are some thoughts that could characterize our more effective educational leaders.
Effective leaders…influence people through their actions, positive motivation, and enthusiasm.
Effective leaders…are great communicators of thoughts, ideas, and feelings.
Effective leaders…develop positive working relationships with people and make them feel that what they are doing is valuable, worthwhile and fun.
Effective leaders…develop a positive, inviting and motivating culture through example.
Effective leaders…observe and listen to all stakeholders – they put people first, demonstrate flexibility when necessary, and consider all points of view.
Effective leaders…positively recognize achievements.
Effective leaders…are credible and respected people because they follow through on promises and commitments.
Effective leaders…are team players that share power.
Effective leaders…are intelligent thinkers.
Effective leaders…stick to what they believe is right.
Effective leaders…enable people to succeed.
Effective leaders…are sensitive.
Effective leaders…are determined.
Effective leaders…are charismatic.
Effective leaders…are hard workers.
For many leaders the first challenge is to see the viewpoints of others. It’s often times too easy to become so obsessed with your vision, that you discount those of other people - or treat those people as things. This mistake can then lead to a break down in teamwork and ownership, deteriorating the effectiveness of the leader. An effective leader must also constantly assess the situations at hand, analyzing, reviewing and redirecting the actions taken towards achieving the vision. This reflection can consume a great deal of time and energy.
Next entry: Why do we teach what we teach?
Previous entry: Constructivist Learning