Being a good boss, being a good leader

Gilger inspires.

.

I can't wait to go back to my publications room and geek out on InDesign to make a poster based on Kristen Gilger's presentation. I'm going to start with the three C's: competence, communication, compassion and our bonus C, courage. When I go back to my old bosses and leadership experiences, I realize how valuable those elements are in a productive workspace. I will be starting my first day in talking with expectations and how pub pushes students above and beyond. Pointing to that poster will  help throughout the year

But there are a few more things for me to keep in mind and communicate (one of my C's!) to my staff members.

• You cannot hide (note to self: avoid menacing look)
• Know when to ask for help-- but if you don't know, ask!
• Build relationships with everyone (the pub family is only created when you work for it)
• Be empathetic! You are not the only person in the room that matters.

And finally, move to the middle. Listening is better than talking.

"The most persuasive thing you can do is listen and demonstrate through actions and words that what the other person has said makes a difference to you," Gilger said. Beautiful!

Sarah-Anne Lanman

Munster High School

Munster, Ind.