Stephen Mitchell, director, Keystone Knowledge, explores some of the most common leadership styles and how they might apply to your role in your school setting
Read the full article below or on page 10 in our April magazine
Being a school business manager, CFO, or COO can be tough. You’re responsible for managing the finances and operations of a school, and you play a crucial role in shaping its culture, direction and success.
As a leader in your school, it’s essential to choose a leadership style that fits the needs and culture of your organisation. In this article we will explore some of the most common leadership styles and how they might apply to your role in a school setting.
The autocratic leader
As an autocratic leader you take control and make decisions without consulting your team. This approach can be effective in some situations – such as during a crisis when quick decisions are needed – but it can also lead to resentment and disengagement among your team members. Remember, it’s important to listen to your team’s opinions and insights, and not be too rigid in your decision-making.
An example of an autocratic leader is Sir Michael Wilshaw, former chief inspector of Ofsted. Sir Michael was known for his tough stance on underperforming schools and his no-nonsense approach to school improvement. He was often criticised for his top-down leadership style, which some felt was overly authoritarian and lacking in collaboration although, arguably, he got results in revitalising the inspectorate at the time. Current day discourse is, of course, now challenging some of those changes. Nothing stays the same, does it?!
If you find yourself leaning towards an autocratic leadership style, try to find ways to involve your team members in decision-making. You can start by asking for their input or feedback on decisions, and taking their opinions into account when making final decisions. This can help build trust and engagement among your team members.
The democratic leader
Democratic leadership involves shared decision-making among team members. As an SBM, CFO, or COO, you may find this approach helpful when making financial decisions or deciding on the best course of action for your school. This approach can lead to better decision-making and greater engagement among team members but it can also be time-consuming and may not be effective in situations where quick decisions need to be made.
An example of a democratic leader is Sir David Carter, former national schools commissioner. Sir David was known for his collaborative approach to school improvement, and working closely with headteachers and other educational leaders to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. He was committed to empowering local leaders and building a culture of collaboration and partnership, and still does this actively now through his positive reinforcement of the sector and networking.
If you want to adopt a more democratic leadership style, start by creating opportunities for team members to share their ideas and opinions. You can hold regular team meetings, conduct surveys or polls, or create online forums where team members can share their thoughts. Be sure to listen actively and take their ideas into account when making decisions.
The transformational leader
Transformational leaders inspire and motivate their team members to achieve a common goal. They set a clear vision, and communicate it effectively, inspiring others to work towards that vision. This approach can be effective in creating a sense of purpose and direction for your school. As an SBM, you may find this style helpful in motivating your team and achieving your institution’s goals but it can also lead to burnout among team members who may feel like they are constantly striving to meet high expectations. Make sure you’re not setting unrealistic expectations for your team.
An example of a transformational leader is Elon Musk. Musk has a clear vision for his companies, such as Tesla and SpaceX, and he inspires his team members to work towards that vision. He is known for his high expectations and relentless pursuit of innovation. I’m not sure many of us would want to work for him for a long time though!
To become a transformational leader, focus on setting a clear vision for your school and communicating it effectively to your team members. You can create a vision statement or strategic plan that outlines your goals and objectives. Be sure to involve your team members in the process and empower them to work towards achieving the vision.
The servant leader
Servant leaders prioritise the needs of their team members above their own needs. They focus on empowering and developing their team members, rather than controlling them. As an SBM, CFO, or COO you may find this approach helpful in building trust and loyalty among your team members.
An example of a UK servant leader in education is Dame Alison Peacock, the chief executive of the Chartered College of Teaching. Dame Alison is a respected education leader who has worked tirelessly to empower and support teachers in the UK. She is committed to putting the needs of teachers and students first, and she advocates for a collaborative and supportive approach to teaching and learning. Under her leadership, the Chartered College of Teaching has become a powerful advocate for teacher professionalism and development in the UK.
If you want to adopt a servant leadership style, focus on developing and empowering your team members. You can provide training and development opportunities, delegate responsibilities and offer feedback and support. Be sure to prioritise the needs of your team members and create a culture that values collaboration and teamwork.
The laissez-faire leader
Laissez-faire leaders take a hands-off approach, delegating most decisions to their team members. As an SBL you may find this style helpful when working with highly skilled and motivated colleagues but it can also lead to confusion and lack of direction among team members. Make sure you’re still providing guidance and support to your team members, even when delegating decisions.
An example of a laissez-faire leader is Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group. Branson is known for delegating decisions to his team members and giving them the autonomy to make decisions. He values creativity and innovation, and believes in creating a culture that fosters entrepreneurship and risk-taking.
To adopt a laissez-faire leadership style, focus on delegating responsibilities and providing your team members with the autonomy to make decisions. You can set clear expectations and guidelines, but allow your team members to find their own solutions and approaches. Be sure to provide guidance and support as needed, but avoid micromanaging or taking over decisions and remember that, when you’re busy, it can very hard to give the support and structure that your team will need.
So, which leadership style is best for you?
The answer depends on the culture, goals, and challenges of your school. As a SBL you need to consider the specific needs and challenges facing your school/trust and choose a leadership style that will help you achieve your goals.
Different leadership styles may be more effective in different school settings and at different times, depending on the situation. For example, a democratic style might be more effective in a school that values collaboration and teamwork, while a transformational style might be more effective in a school that needs to go on a rapid improvement journey, or is a trust at the beginning of its growth path.
In a school where collaboration and teamwork are valued, a democratic leadership style can be particularly effective; by involving team members in decision-making, and valuing their contributions, this style can create a sense of ownership and shared responsibility among team members. This can lead to greater engagement and commitment to achieving the school’s goals.
On the other hand, in a school that values innovation and change, a transformational leadership style may be more effective. By setting a clear vision and inspiring colleagues to work towards that vision, this style can create a sense of purpose and direction for the school. This can help motivate staff to take risks and embrace new ideas, leading to greater innovation and progress.
In general, a democratic or transformational leadership style can be effective in most situations. These styles prioritise collaboration, empowerment, and clear communication, which are essential for a successful school.
Don’t forget to inject some humour and personality into your leadership style! A positive attitude and a sense of humour can go a long way in building a strong team and achieving your institution’s goals.
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