In the recent SmartBrief on Leadership issue, there is an
interesting blog from Radical Candor.
I hadn’t previously read anything published by Candor so this is new for me. I
tend to shy away from anything labeled, “Radical” given the nature of our work!
What was interesting in this blog was the question asked,
“How can you determine where you fall on this spectrum, so you can learn how to
move in the right direction?”
It’s no surprise that Candor suggests that people on your
team are more engaged when partnering exists. That’s the mantra of an
instructional coach… partner, not dictate; collaborate, not tell, even when the
advice is under the guise of guidance.
This blog recommends these actions to ensure a partnership
approach:
· Displays curiosity and recognizes when more knowledge is needed;
· Listens to problems, predicts problems, brainstorms solutions, and asks why;
· Asks about relevant details;
· Is informed because of a hands-on approach;
· Leads collaborative goal-setting;
· Removes obstacles and defuses explosive situations (coaches are oftentimes intermediaries and
liaisons minimizing the possibility of any volatile situation)
I agree with most of the above
list but the one that sticks out to me in a negative way is the “predicts
problems” phrase. Coaches do not predict problems; coaches ask questions that
help their teaching colleagues share the “what if” kinds of scenarios. Predictions
may become someone’s prophecies; coaches avoid telling a colleague that a
problem will occur even if they suspect it will happen. Instead, coaches are
thought partners who help their colleagues think through instructional
practices, discuss about multiple perspectives and ideas, co-plan strategies to
address a myriad of classroom and instructional efforts, and collectively
problem solve to find multiple ways to approach teaching and learning.
Are you a micromanager, absentee manager, or a thought partner?
Best wishes for a happy and healthy
New Year!
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