Researchers tell us that a staggering 93% of communication is nonverbal, with body language alone accounting for 55% of the message we convey. So as a leader, your physical presence often speaks volumes before you even utter a word.
A recent article in Forbes magazine outlined the seven key elements of leadership body language. Since nonverbal cues significantly shape perception, mastering body language can be a valuable tool for any leader striving to make a lasting impact.
The abundance of information available today can be overwhelming, and it can be very tempting to jump to conclusions. Instead we need to take time to gather evidence methodically, question assumptions, ask clarifying questions, discuss the matter with others, and engage in critical thinking before we form an opinion.
This article suggests 10 steps that you can take while waiting until there are “actual concrete facts.” Otherwise, you may jump right into something you shouldn’t have. And in those times when you forget this advice, you should never hesitate to jump back (instead of doubling-down).
Mastering this “wait and see” attitude is often a key component in becoming an effective educational leader!
Emotional intelligence skills can help any school leader become more effective, better serving their school and community.
In this article, ASCD author Ignacio Lopez explores some key EI skills and discusses why they are so vital. This may be one of the most important articles you’ll read this year!
Note: The information Lopez provides can also be useful for teacher leaders, too.
Back in November, we discussed the importance of making others feel heard. Here’s a related question: Do you listen … REALLY listen … to your colleagues, your friends, or even your own family?
All too often, many of us listen only to decide what we want to say next. Some even interrupt others so they can squeeze in a thought before they forget or the subject changes.
Active listening is a critical skill for educational leaders. As Amy Gallo explains, it requires developing a mental discipline that allows you to listen “purely for comprehension — without an agenda, distraction, or judgment.” It also means that you actively seek input from all of your constituents, regardless of their level, rank, or subjective importance.
Research by Weger, et al.* strongly suggests that those who engage in active listening are seen as more competent, likeable, and trustworthy by others. Active listening is also positively related to employees’ perceptions of support from their managers, which in turn predicts higher levels of job satisfaction and organizational commitment.
With results like that, the investment of time needed to improve your listening skills seems well worth the effort! And the article above provides several tips to get you started.
*Weger H., Castle B., Minei E, and Robinson C (2014). The Relative Effectiveness of Active Listening in Initial Interactions . International Journal of Listening, 28:1, 13-31.
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