Leadership communication and teamwork strategies in educational institutions

¶ … Visionary Leader: Communication and Teamwork Strategies

Communication and teamwork constitute important leadership roles. For organizational goals and objectives to be successfully achieved, the leader must effectively communicate the vision and mission of the organization, as well as employ a teamwork approach in developing and implementing the vision and mission (Inlenfeldt, 2011; Day, 2014). This essay examines how leadership roles and responsibilities within the author\'s educational setting demonstrate effective strategic leadership with respect to communication and teamwork. In particular attention is paid to the communication of the institution\'s vision and mission statements, teamwork strategies involved in the development, and implementation of vision and mission statements, as well as measures for improving communication and teamwork processes.

The mission and vision statements of an organization essentially define why the organization exists and where it desires to go (Inlenfeldt, 2011). The mission and vision can only be effectively achieved if everyone in the organization clearly understands them. In essence, there must be a shared understanding of the mission and vision across all levels of the organization. The leadership of the organization plays an instrumental role in communicating the organization\'s mission and vision (Day, 2014). At the author\'s setting, the institution\'s mission and vision are communicated via a number of channels. These include internal memos, staff meetings, presentations, and emails. The mission and vision are also communicated via monthly newsletters and annual publications. Relying on multiple channels of communication is particularly vital for ensuring every employee in the organization clearly understands the goals and objectives of the organization, and their contribution to the achievement of those goals and objectives (Lumsden, Lumsden & Wiethoff, 2010).

Whereas effective communication of the organization towards its mission is important, it is perhaps even more important to involve employees in the development and implementation of the mission and vision. Employee engagement is vital for increasing agreement with the vision and mission, as well as building a sense of ownership of the mission and vision (Day, 2014). When employees are involved in mission and vision development, they are more likely to have a better understanding and be more committed to implementing the mission and vision (Lumsden, Lumsden & Wiethoff, 2010). At the author\'s institution, teamwork is considered an important value in mission and vision development. During strategic planning or moments of significant change, the leadership usually invites members of staff from all functions and departments to submit their concerns and perspectives. This is often important for increasing support for change initiatives as well as enhancing commitment to the set goals and objectives. In addition, various processes and activities regularly undertaken with a view to fostering the spirit of teamwork. These include dinners, office parties, as well as outdoor activities. The institution further enhances teamwork by encouraging teamwork in the execution of tasks, appreciating outstanding work, addressing interpersonal conflicts properly, and ensuring proper work balance.