Whether you are leading a classroom or leading your colleagues, it is important that you use your voice to lead as a professional. I was reading several professional articles recently when one published by Lolly Daskal of Lead Within caught my eye regarding your professional voice.
Have you ever been in a leadership meeting and the person who is speaking begins to rant, ramble, or raise their voice? We've probably all been there, and for me personally, I automatically lose respect for the qualities that this leader has demonstrated. I definitely don't want to be that person.
I have several teachers who are in the process or recently completed their administrative certification, and learning to speak in front of a group and learning to use your voice is something that takes time and purposeful effort. As professionals in education, we all go through this to some degree as we return to the classroom from being absent during the summer. We all go through an adjustment period of learning to use our voice to command the attention of our students at whatever age they may be.
The article by Ms. Daskal was insightful as I reflected upon the many times as an administrator, I have had to learn to use my voice to share my viewpoints, opinions, celebrations, and defend my decisions with other colleagues. This article really justified my thoughts and self reflection on speaking, and so I thought it would be great to share with others.
Highlights shared and ones that I suggest we all contemplate when using our voice:
1. Don't let others overpower you. The people who are doing all the talking are not necessarily the smartest in the room.
2. Earn the respect you deserve. Sometimes, I feel that if I do speak up, others will think I'm bragging, But, in reality, others need to hear from your experiences.
3. Speak up when it's right. Don't be a chatterbox, it's annoying and others will learn to tune you out.
4. Tact and diplomacy have power. Don't get emotional or defensive. I find this at times to be easier said than done. This is especially true when I am emotionally tied to my profession and results.
5. Be proud and polite. Don't raise your voice and don't interrupt - it isn't professional.
6. Back it up. Use your facts and data to support your statements.
7. Be concise. Everyone dislikes a "rambler." Be smart and concise - it invents coherence.
Using these 7 tips will help anyone and everyone in demonstrating that what you have to say is valuable and YOU are a valued person. Good luck!
