THOUGHTS FOR PRE-SERVICE AND BEGINNING TEACHERS (25)

As a principal over time, it seemed to me two things (among others) were important.

1. It was of critical importance to separate the personal from the professional in terms of relationships. I feel it impossible to be a good boss or empathic leader if those one os leading are one’s personal ‘buddy’ friends and mates. Separation can enhance respect and make leadership easier.

My advice to all teachers is to consider the need for this professional/personal separation.

2. I felt it important to be a person who lead by doing and not by saying. Directing others without being prepared to go there oneself does little to enhance leadership. It is far more important to be respected than liked.

It is ‘doing’ not merely ‘saying’ that is so important and too often overlooked .