An innovative leader is not afraid to implement new ideas and take risks. Without the belief that failure is an essential component of real success, a school can never reach its full potential.
Confidence is contagious. With the right amount of confidence leading a school, staff and students are guaranteed to follow suit, inspired by the portrayal of inner strength and fearlessness that says: “I can achieve anything.”
A great leader knows that success comes only through effective collaboration. By including staff-members in decision-making, and confiding in teachers for ideas, suggestions, and support, an idea can become a movement.
A creative mind sees the world differently. A great leader will imagine new possibilities, and visualize new ideas in everything that they do. This inspires others to think in the same way, building a school full of original thinkers, visionaries, and leaders.
A great leader knows the importance of being open-minded, allowing others to experiment with new methods, investing in new technology, and developing a growth mindset. Building a team based on openness, students are never denied an opportunity to excel.
6. Lifelong learner
Every great educational leader sees themselves as a lifelong learner with a growth mindset. Leading by example, a lifelong learner encourages learning in all aspects of life, as something fun, stimulating, and empowering.
All leaders need to be proactive. Without waiting for things to get done, a great leader will take control and make it happen. By getting staff-members on board and building a combined attitude of pro-activeness, there’s no telling what your school could achieve.
As a role-model for both staff and students, an educational leader needs that motivational attitude that drives change, difference, and optimism. This encourages a school body to stretch towards every goal, giving 100% in every single challenge.
A positive atmosphere tends to cling to the school walls, encouraging staff and students to uphold this joyful ambiance at all costs. While an educational leader does need to display strength and authority, this doesn’t have to come at the expense of positivity. By instilling a positive school atmosphere, a brighter outlook will prevail, no matter how dark the walls.
A great leader knows that to create your own success, you need to first discover what makes you unique. By promoting difference as something to be celebrated, students are encouraged to stand out, be original, challenge convention, and not to fear the judgement of others.
About the author:
Lorna Keane specializes in language teaching and has taught in second and third-level institutions in several countries. She holds a B.A in languages and cultural studies and an M.A in French literature, theory and visual culture. Follow her on Twitter or connect on LinkedIn.