What is a leader? (Module 1.2 Activity and reflection)
I have worked as a primary school teacher for over 20 years now, during this time I have worked with many inspirational leaders and mentors. They have been other staff members and leaders in my school who have provided me guidance through a shared vision and strategies to take our team forward.
When I begin to analyse each individual that has inspired me to achieve individual and team outcomes they have a number of shared qualities that made them effective leaders.
- built positive relationships
- genuine interest and care for others
- built others up
- innovative
- goal oriented
- visionary who inspired change
- justified change with research
- supported change with staff development
- great communicators
- supportive, encouraging and motivating
- trusted others to make decisions
- valued all opinions
- delegated responsibilities without micro-managing
- treated all staff with respect
- they focussed on a team mentality (non-hierarchical)
- offered positive and constructive feedback
- most importantly they became my confidants and friends
