Relationships and Management

Management is inherently about relationships. Management in K-12 organizations is doubly so—K-12 doesn't produce widgets or turn a profit, it's all about the people.

Talking with people and building relationships is how a manager plays the "long game" of influence and getting things done. Trust is built through mutual respect that can only be developed over time.

This means a lot of meetings, especially one-on-ones with your directs. The hosts of the excellent Manager Tools podcast frequently talk about the effectiveness of consistent one-on-ones as a way to build relationships, keep a feedback loop open, and learn how to tailor management styles for individual employees.

Consistent check-ins with employees allow managers to empower but still keep a close eye on and informally measure progress on projects and goals. Managers can learn and match employees up with projects and tasks that meet the individual's interests and aspirations, even from outside of work. It's through this constant and consistent feedback loop that managers can help each employee become a superhero.

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