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As co-host and Principal Jen Schwanke explains, the system we live in requires us to make some of the biggest decisions of life with our gut feelings.
The good news is that you do not have to rely on gut feeling to find the right fit in leadership. What are steps you can take to be more intentional?
In this week’s episode, we explore several suggestions to keep in mind when interviewing or considering new positions in education:
- Visit before saying yes.
- Ask hard questions.
- Picture yourself and/or your family for the next ten years.
- Replace the ‘gut feeling’ with positives and negatives when making a final decision.
- Be clear on weaknesses and potential pitfalls.
- Remember fit does not mean perfection.
When Is It Time to Stop?
A podcast listener recently wrote in and said, “I think my follow up question for a future podcast is when is it time to just stop interviewing and find peace in your current reality?”
To answer this question, we consider the following:
- Jen shares a heart warming story about a friend who chose to stay in teaching as his best fit.
- Remember there is a point to just have peace, not “move up” the proverbial career ladder.
- Look at the money, time, and commitment – weigh all those options before deciding.
- As yourself what else is there in your professional life you could enjoy without a move.
Don’t limit yourself to titles
Finally, we talk about the importance of not getting caught up in what organizational charts dictate as “up and down”. Perhaps you may also want to flex your leadership muscles in ways that don’t fit the title of principal. You may want to consider:
- Adjunct professor
- Coaching
- Blogging
- Podcasting
- Presenting at workshops
- Mentoring
Let’s Wrap This Up
As you consider next steps in your own professional practice, you may be satisfied with your current fit. If so, congratulations! If not, think about how to explore the next options with forethought, well-versed, and prepared.
If you’re in the process of looking and want even more feedback on how to prepare for interviewing, check out other resources. Email us your questions. Or reach out to Jen or me if you’re interested in consulting or coaching options for preparing for the next step!
