Bring out the best in others

What we focus on has a habit of becoming our reality.

And it is in this context that the saying, "You can either bring out the best or the 'beast' in others" really applies.

So how do we bring out the best in others?

1. Genuinely care. It is still true that people don't want to know what you know, until they know that you care. However, it takes time for others to really know 'where you are coming from'. And it takes time for your team to work out whether your care is genuine, or motivated by self. However, first and foremost your care should be for the genuine progress of every child / student in your school. And this should be communicated as a non-negotiable.

2. Notice and appreciate the small contributions. Leader's need to learn to be observers of others. They need to develop their ability in noticing the small things, the small changes - and acknowledging them. Not everyone feels comfortable being acknowledged publicly, so sometimes a short word of appreciation in private is better received.

3. Give the benefit of the doubt. There will be times when you are unsure of where some of your team are coming from. Times like this call for patience (the count to 10 strategy!) and applying one of the golden rules of communication - clarify, clarify, clarify! (Questions like "I just want to check in on what you meant when you said...." or "Can you just clarify what you mean by...." can be useful.)

4. Pursue a vision that is worth the effort. Nobody is keen to give their all until they really believe that it is worth it. But what are the blockages to them coming on board with your vision? Have you explained it clearly enough? Are your messages and actions congruent with the vision? Are there some trust issues that need to be resolved? Are all the senior leaders singing off the same song-sheet?

Ultimately, you are only as good as your team. So getting the best from them collectively and as individuals is critical, and well worth the effort!