Developing My Identity as a Technology Leader

My leadership style is developing by the interactions I have with the people I encounter.  My willingness to help, listen, and build positive relationships has helped me evolve as a leader. I briefly met my mentor about two years ago when I was a teacher and established a good relationship with her. I didn't talk much, but rather let her show me who she and what she needed from me at the time. All in all,  I felt lucky to have had the opportunity in the past to meet who my mentor is today because she is now helping me today with this course. Then I thought how important relationships are. You never know when you will need someone's help in the future, so making every relationship a positive interaction is a must. 

When I was a first year teacher I was mentored by a great principal, Mrs. Wynne, who later got promoted to lead all principals in the district. Mrs. Wynne taught me to sit back and listen, truly listen. Listen to the needs of my students, parents, and colleagues by what is driving them to say what they say. Then pin pointing the root of the issue or solution. I learned to be quiet to give space for others to express their needs and feel heard. My motto then became less talking more listening. You reserve energy for the right things this way. I also learned as a leader we are there to serve others and show them the magic that's already inside of who they are. I hope to be establishing my presence as a leader through this practicum as a source of inspiration to help teachers feel empowered to implement more technology in their classrooms (Couros 2016, p.125-126)  We need to teach them how to tap into their greatness and help them see it for themselves. 

My leadership style has improved by being more giving of my time. Although it is not part of my practicum, I will be giving a quick training on how to implement Google Suites. I was asked to by my mentor if I would be willing to do this for a different school and not the school I am doing my practicum for. This is when I asked myself what a leader would do? Would they say no because it's not required by their course or job description. Would they say yes because leaders are to be of service to others. So the answer seems obvious now, and I will put forth the extra time and effort to help whoever it is that needs my help. 

A strength I view in my leadership style is perhaps the openness to adjust to the needs of others and not feel like people have to do things my way. Rather I've learned to adapt to what is needed as a whole to help a greater amount of people by simply listening to their needs, planning efficient and effective work for them, and checking back in with whoever I helped to see the effects and learn from that. I also learned that as a leader you also have to be ok with not everyone liking you. Those who resonate with you will grow with you and spread their knowledge onto others reaching a wider audience; and the whole time you are continued to be by their side not only as a leader, but a team player.  

Couros, G. (2015). The innovator’s mindset: empower learning, unleash talent, and lead a culture of creativity. San Diego, CA: Dave Burgess Consulting, Inc.