When we talk about devotion and leadership, it’s usually about the followers, but commitment is not a one-way road. At the beginning of your career, make the decision to be trustworthy, and reap the benefits. When educators trust you, they will give you 110% every day and always have your back.
Can I trust you?
Garnering the trust of your fellow educators makes it easier to put your plans in action and have others buy into your vision. When you enact a new policy or rule, there may be questions, but few will doubt your motives, as they know you have their best interests at heart. This only happens when you have a track record of being a trustworthy leader. Your word is your bond, and people know that you won’t break it for anyone. This level of trustworthiness takes a high level of courage and bravery, as sooner or later, it might put you in direct conflict with your higherups.
If following orders means breaking a promise, what will you do, will you stand tall or back down? If your higherups are as principled as you, if possible, they will work with you to find a compromise. Even if you have to break that promise, your followers will understand that you did everything you could to keep it. No matter how principled you are, you can’t beat City Hall. Evoking a sense of trust in your followers is one of the keys to being a successful leader. When employees respect you, they will trust your ability to lead them in good times and bad times.
Concluding thoughts
Education leaders garner trust by letting their actions speak louder than their words. They outwork everyone else and help other leaders and educators grow and elevate their skills. When it is all said and done, everyone wins, especially the students. When students trust the leaders in their school, they will work hard to achieve academically and to meet behavioral expectations.
