My leadership style is very clear. I have a democratic style. In my professional career, I have only been modeled this style. I think about how my school runs. There are many administrators that hold the school together in very diverse ways. Each one has approached the culture of the school with a democratic style. As a staff member, I have felt valued, part of the decision-making and never believed there was an "us" versus "them" mentality. Thus, I too have that leadership style. Working in the History Department, I encourage interaction and participation of all staff present. Clear directions are given and following-up is expected. When decisions are made, all those affected are contacted and asked. Additionally, I thought about what voices do I give attention to as a leader. My dimension of leadership can answer that, which is servant. My number one interest is on the needs of the stakeholders. By meeting their needs, I am gaining trust. Knowing what one thing I can do for colleague to make their day better or make tea for staff member that is not feeling well are examples of servant leadership. Trust is one of the most important parts of being a great leader. I am clearly not an authoritarian leader; I want the consent of the stakeholders by building their trust and following through with commitments. I think that assessing the staff and attempting to meet their needs is a great way to build culture of excellence. A staff that works together will be a staff that can focus on creating the best school in the universe.
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2/26/2015 01:11:04 pm
Joanna, it seems you have a very clear understanding of your leadership style, and it's wonderful how you've had the ability to nurture and build that style alongside the philosophy of your school. When you have a consistent model to follow, I know it can be a blessing. Though you have a clear "democratic" leadership style, do you ever find yourself needing a more authoritarian voice, say, when you're having a challenge with a student? Because of the relationship and influence you described in an earlier post about, "Mom," it seems that you may also have a "paternalistic", or maternalistic, leadership component as well, would you agree?
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March 2015
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