Oh, one addition/correction to something I said:

I said "When you do have a suggestion, remember that you are new
and talking to experienced educators, try to speak in a way that
suggests humility- don't speak authoritatively, put it more like
"I have an idea, I wonder if X would work." "

Be careful here too. For the first half of your first year you
probably shouldn't try to be too quick to add your 2 cents. Ask
questions and listen, you want them to see that you are trying to
learn. Adding suggestions too assertively may paint you as a
"know it all" but it can be a two edged sword. Adding suggestions
too tentatively can come off as a lack of confidence. So, for at
least the first half of your first year you should probably only
listen and ask questions (unless specifically asked for your
opinion) and later, add your suggestions very sparingly. An added
benefit will be that someone that speaks up only when they have a
very good idea will start to get the reputation of someone with
good ideas and you will be listened to more than someone that
shares everything that enters their mind.

Share This Post | Report This Post

Next Post >>

Posts on this thread, including this one