Relationships and Leadership

Successful leaders need to be able to cultivate and nurture relationships. While this is true for leaders, it is equally true for us as individuals. On March 31st, the Huffington Post published an article called 8 Signs You're In The Right Relationship. According to the author, the 8 telling signs are designed to provide more concrete proof that you are with that special person. As I read the article, I reflected on a past relationship... Based on the fact that very few, if any, of the "signs" existed, it is no wonder that things worked out the way they did. On the other hand, almost all of the signs do exist in my current relationship, so if I view the information as truthful, I'm hopeful that I got it right this time around!!

Of course, as is often the case, when I reflect on what I have read, I relate it to all aspects of my life. This was no different. So taking a little creative liberty with the content of the article by rephrasing it to address leadership relationships, here are signs that you have a positive relationship with individuals in your work place:

1. You know what your staff needs to feel appreciated, even if those needs are different than yours. (Try reading  "The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace:Empowering Organizations by Encouraging People" by Gary Chapman and Paul White)

2. Conflicts are handled in a respectful and productive manner. Try reading "Working with Difficult People" by Muriel Soloman.

3. The relationship bolsters each person's self-esteem.

4. You are different enough to bring new perspectives, but on the same page where it matters most.

5. You are willing to put "we" before "me." There is a commitment to the greater good.

6. There is a genuine concern and emotional response when the person is not around.

Obviously, some if the signs in the article are NOT appropriate for the workplace, but the desire to put the people and the relationships with the people we work with in the forefront is essential if we hope to develop the relationships that can transform our schools.This focus on the development and well being of others and the desire to serve is consistent  with a model of leadership known as Servant leadership.

 Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership is an organization designed to share information about aspects of Servant Leadership. They offer a multitude of training materials, have a wide selection of books and even host an annual conference. Building effective relationships is crucial for all leaders, but for leaders in "Turn-Around" schools relationships are even more important.