Working with your senior leadership team through COVID-19

Collaborative problem solving

Effective leaders know that the people they serve find assurance in knowing that there is a plan and a path forward but this needs to be balanced with the understanding that a leader should not expect to know everything or have the answer for everything. Working with others to problem solve in collaborative ways builds credibility and trust. It draws people in and helps to ensure they feel part of the team. Using ERO’s internal self-review process may be helpful in supporting this process.

Forum for feedback/pulse taking

At every level of the school, people will be processing what is happening and wanting opportunities to ask questions and give feedback. Effective leaders provide simple, regular opportunities for this either in person, or through their leadership teams as part of their delegated responsibilities. These opportunities build trust and helps the leadership team have a clear understanding of what is going on and how people are feeling.

Sharing with empathy and optimism

Empathetic leaders acknowledge the anxiety and uncertainty others may be feeling. They recognise the stress some information may cause so they do their best to engender a sense of hope and optimism. Empathic and optimistic leaders make it clear that there is a path to a better future and that the contributions of others are valued. They model empathy by ensuring relational trust operates through regular one-on-one and leadership team communication. Empathetic leaders keep their “ear to the ground” and are quick to resolve any issues and concerns that arise.

Honesty and transparency

Credible leaders share all the facts. They deliver information in a clear and straight-forward manner to avoid giving a false perception of reality. When leaders communicate, they need to be deliberate in ensuring it is timely, regular and relevant to the recipients. Leaders could take a leaf out of the communications we’ve received from Iona Holsted. These communications may not work for all of the people, all of the time. However, they can and do clarify essential information for schools and kura and can be accessed by recipients at any point in time.

Successful leaders communicate in ways that maximise trust and minimise stress and anxiety. They establish a communication routine which people can look to with reliability and are willing to ensure that it meets the needs of their school community. During uncertain times successful leaders know that strong, measured and trustworthy leadership is more important than ever.

In essence leaders who communicate calmly, honestly and respectfully, help others to experience less stress and receive information through a more hopeful and positive lens.

Get in touch to learn more

Contact Ed Hodgkinson