Some characteristics are more significant than others. Regarding educational leadership, the ability to appraise events and individuals fairly is crucial because it demonstrates that they are respected and appreciated. Do you like to perform for someone who shows partiality to teachers with whom they have formed bonds and handle all other teachers indiscriminately? No, you would like to collaborate with someone who is equitable to everyone and keeps their feelings out of personnel decisions.

A Little History

Throughout history, educational leaders have taken advantage of the individuals they lead, yet, things rarely turned out in their interest. People admire and revere educational leaders who are impartial to them. Leaders that treat people unfairly have a bad reputation throughout history. Even if they are respected throughout history, someone will publish a book that reveals their real character, not just the dramatized version, sooner or later.

Fairness appears to be the easiest talent to cultivate among the many mentioned under leadership character. You need to leave your prejudices, biases, and preconceptions at the door and make a sensible, common-sense decision. On second thinking, it might not be as simple as I portray.

My Process for Being Fair-Minded

This is how I make a choice that is fair to everyone involved. I ask myself several questions to assist me in making the most rational and balanced decision possible. For example, if two persons are eligible for a promotion, one of them is a personal friend, I consider who is better suited for the job. If I cannot be genuine with myself, I make a chart listing the credentials required for the new position and the responsibilities that come with it. Then I split each contender’s name into its column, picking the candidate with the upper hand in each area.

After that, I add up the points and make a judgement. If I need a second view, I have someone outside the company read through each participant’s résumé and pick who they feel has the upper hand in each area. Then I analyze our scores, and if we arrive at the same decision, I proceed with my preference. If not, I will have to conduct some soul-searching before making a definitive decision.