School leadership to motivate and engage teachers

The Hay Group have released some practical steps that school leaders can take to ensure sustained levels of individual and team effectiveness. They say that there is no "magic bullet" but certain things do help.


Key points:
- Motivated employees have increased performance. They are less likely to be ill, better focused on the child's and community needs, more innovative and more likely to remain within the school.
- Inspirational leadership is the greatest motivator: 30% of organisational performance is dependent on an a motivational working climate (that is the degree of flexibility, responsibility, standards, rewards, clarity and commitment from employees).
- Integrity, role modelling and authenticity of leadership is vital.
- Teachers are often highly engaged. However they can become frustrated if held back by roles that do not suit them and work environments which get in their way, resulting in high levels of motivation not being translated into outcomes for children.
- Leaders need to be clear about how an individuals contribution adds to the larger purpose.
- There should be good, timely communication and feedback.
- Talent management - that is ensuring that people's unique competencies are stretched, should be used alongside useful "HR" practices when designing jobs.
- Ensure training for all staff - the high performers and underachievers often receive most of the attention. Yet the middle group's untapped potential is also significant.