by Matt Topliss

Initial Impressions

As a new leader in any school, first impressions are pivotal and create opportunities for growth and development for a new leader and existing colleagues. Creating a positive first impression for school leaders is central to the establishment of trust and confidence amongst stakeholders and the wider community. Being visible, approachable, and interested in the workings of a school both during onboarding and in the early days of school will support the contextual understanding of a new leader in any school. The initial interactions and perceptions can set the tone for future relationships, impacting the school culture, teacher morale and value, and student success. While we all know this, how does this happen, and what do we need to ensure it happens in the early days of a new leadership role?

When you are appointed and arrive in school as a new leader, all eyes are on you. Teachers, students, and parents are eager to see how you will lead, communicate, and make decisions and how these will affect their working lives, learning and progression, or the stability and reputation of their school. The first few encounters, whether during an assembly, parent orientation session, or staff induction session, are key moments where opinions are formed on both sides of the equation.

Developing Lasting Trust

When, as leaders, we demonstrate integrity, transparency, and a genuine interest in the well-being of the school community during these early interactions, we lay the groundwork for lasting trust. As an example, a school leader who takes the time to listen actively to teachers’ opinions or ideas during the staff induction workshops signals that they value input and are committed to collaborative consultation and decision-making. Consultation demonstrates care for and interest in colleagues, their opinions and knowledge of the school they may have been part of for several years. Being humble and appreciative in these settings will support the development of long-lasting professional relationships built on respect and mutual understanding. Take the time to listen and absorb, but also recognise that a busy school needs to be led, and teachers, students, and parents will want to see decisions being made and the school moving forward right from the beginning of your role.

Showing Contextual Awareness

Confidence in leadership often stems from the perception of competence, vision and a demonstrated understanding of the school’s context. During the initial phase of a school leader’s tenure, it is essential to communicate a clear, compelling vision for the school’s future. This vision should be accompanied by a strategic plan that addresses current challenges while presenting innovative ideas for improvement. Planning should be centred on the current context and awareness of the past, and the readiness of the school and colleagues to move forward should always be at the forefront of your mind. Change is often an unsettling concept for school stakeholders as the inevitable dread of ‘more changes with new leadership’ looms large. Trust and confidence will alleviate some of this fear and enable colleagues, parents and students to join you as the school takes a new direction. 

A Safe Pair of Hands

A school leader who can articulate a well-thought-out plan and demonstrate their ability to execute it effectively will instil confidence among stakeholders. For example, a new principal identifies key areas for academic improvement and outlines specific steps to enhance student learning outcomes. This can reassure teachers and parents that the school is in capable hands and the identified priorities are meaningful and central to expectations of the key groups within the school and are ‘core business’.

The Importance of Communication

Effective communication and messaging are essential for forming positive first impressions, and language and tone are especially important in the first few weeks. In international settings, your message must be heard and understood. Avoid jargon and keep the message simple. Give parents, teachers and students a chance to hear and see you and give them time to understand your message and get on board. We must convey their ideas clearly and with empathy. Whether addressing a concerned parent or speaking at a school-wide event,  your tone, body language, and choice of words all contribute to how you are perceived. Open and transparent communication develops an environment of trust and confidence. Being approachable and transparent in your communication, you ease anxieties and build a strong foundation for ongoing dialogue and partnership. 

The Need for Continuity

As you settle into your role and trust and confidence develop, it is important to remember that whilst first impressions are important, they must be backed up by consistent behaviour over time. The worst scenario for staff, students, and parents is one where plans are laid out and then changed and changed again. A positive initial impression will quickly fade unless followed by actions that reinforce your commitment to the school’s vision and values. You must continuously demonstrate your dedication to the school community by being visible, accessible, and responsive to the needs of students, staff, and parents. Regular follow-ups on commitments, transparent decision-making processes, and consistently demonstrating your core values are essential in sustaining the trust and confidence initially gained.

And finally….

In the fast-moving environment of a school, where relationships and morale can significantly impact outcomes, the importance of first impressions in leadership cannot be overstated. A school leader’s ability to create a positive impression is central to developing the trust and confidence necessary to support school improvement. School leaders can ensure that their first impressions lead to long-term success and a positive school culture by focusing on transparency, communication, and consistency.

Matt Topliss is the Principal, Kyoto International School, Japan

To connect with Matt on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matt-topliss-fcct-76a183141

Next week’s Principal’s Blog is written by Kim Peters,  Head of School, TESLA Education – IB World School, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

LYIS is committed to providing expert guidance on all aspects of international school leadership. If you would like help and support with adapting your leadership to the school context or any other leadership issue, please speak to André Double, email: andre@leadingyourinternationalschool.com

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