We began our first class tonight with the challenge of answering the "Tell me more about yourself" question as if you were interviewing for an administrative position. This struck me as wanting to express why I do what I do and why I want to advance my career as an educational leader. In order for somebody to see me as a potential leader, they first need to gain insight into the source of my passion for why I do what I do. I look forward to expanding upon and improving my response to this question. I had an idea that potential employers could care less about the bullet points of my resume, and more so about the WHY I am sitting in the chair across from them. It may not be about being different or unique , but more about offering an instant insight into what your vision as a leader will be. I was able to understand that this question is not about listing dates, degrees, or job titles , but more so about telling your story and selling yourself. I feel a quality candidate will be able to keep the interviewer on the edge of their seat by professing genuine passion as to why they want to lead others. There is no boxed "right" answer to the question as that is up to us to decide, but whatever story you choose to share, make sure it is the one that is most meaningful to you.
Leadership is the ability to inspire others to follow your vision.Leadership simply can not be the person in power barking orders and expecting anything meaningful to occur. A top down directive will not gather much buy in if you do not include the voice of those under your watch. A leader lifts those up around them and gives them the tools to grow as individuals and collectively achieve greater things. A leader does these by collaborating with their staff and empowering them to pursue their own passions.one of the most powerful quotes that really struck me from our course tonight was when Mr. Caposey stated "Leaders who are only leaders by title are not really leaders" because we often get caught up in the notion that our building principal is the end all, be all in terms of leadership in a building when in fact there may be other just as capable if not better "leaders" surrounding you. That doesn't mean that a building principal can't or shouldn't be an inspiring change agent (because they should) , more so If you feel inspired or compelled to do something great, go out and do it. The most influential "leaders" I know are those that inspire me to do those great things whether their name is on main office door or not.
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AuthorRyan Huels is a 1st Grade teacher in Northern Illinois. A graduate of Northern Illinois University, Ryan places an emphasis on being a connected educator eager to put the needs of all students first! Archives
October 2015
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