In the January/February 1991 issue of Child Care Information Exchange, it’s editor, Roger Neugebauer, wrote and published the article “12 Reasons People Love to Work for You.” In it, Neugebauer focuses on the practices of directors at childcare centers where teacher turnover is low. Based on his observations, he determined twelve practices you can implement to motivate people to remain in your employment.
REASON #6: You inspire commitment.
Great leaders inspire commitment – not to themselves, but to the goals and vision of the organization. You must define the vision of your organization, write it down and live it. Use that vision to guide all you do and communicate it regularly to your staff.
Lawrence J. Peter said, “If you don’t know where you are going, you will probably end up somewhere else.” To accomplish great things we must be committed to a purpose. But what is it that we are committed to? Many directors have said to me, “If they just cared about it like I care about it!” My response is, ”What have YOU done to help them care?” I hope you see clearly what your program could be. That vision is probably why you chose early education and accepted your position as administrator. Have you defined your vision so that you can share it with others?
Here’s my vision: I want every program in our state to be someplace that I would put my own children. I know what that sounds like, I know what that looks like, and I even know how it smells. Everyday I try to help others work toward that vision. The days can be long and the work can be demanding, but it is with clear purpose that I do it. I can think of no other work more important and rewarding. Define that for your staff and help them to focus on the vision. I feel sure you will be pleased with the results.
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