Leadership in Uncertain Times Calls for Sharp Focus on Interpersonal Skills
If you were to take some time to list the attributes of the best leader you have ever experienced and then make a separate list of the attributes of the worst leader you have experienced, it is likely that interpersonal skills–or the lack of them—comprise a significant part of your list. Most likely, your list includes such attributes as empathy, strong and positive interpersonal skills, and social responsibility.
Empathy is about recognizing, understanding, and appreciating the feelings of others. It is about respecting others’ feelings and exhibiting behaviors that show that respect. Empathy includes being able to articulate your understanding of someone else’s perspective, whether or not you have ever experienced a similar situation or feeling. When we “witness the struggle”, we are expressing our respect and understanding of another’s perspective and exhibiting behaviors that show that respect.
Interpersonal skills include the development and maintenance of relationships that are compassionate and trusting. Such relationships are mutually satisfying. When we show personal regard for others, we are contributing to compassionate and trusting relationships by our thoughts, words, and actions.
Social responsibility exhibits one’s social consciousness, being concerned with the greater good and contributing to the welfare of others. Educators, by our choice of profession, contribute to the welfare of others on a daily basis. Our actions exhibit a focus on the greater good for our students, our staff, and our families and communities.
These three areas of interpersonal skills are not inclusive of all, yet they offer specific areas of skill that are recognizable in outstanding leaders in all times. They are particularly crucial in times of uncertainty, chaos, and change.
Frances Shuster, PCC, M.Ed., is a Partner with Results Coaching Global and co-author of Results Coaching: The New Essential for School Leaders and Results Coaching Next Steps: Leading for Growth and Change. She is a faculty instructor and coach for the Results Coaching Global Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP). Frances is certified to administer the EQi 2.0 and EQI 360 assessments. Please contact her at frances@resultscoachingglobal.com for more information.
