I have recently added some brainstorming sessions at our weekly Dept. Head meetings. I have changed my approach to staff meetings. It used to be that I would just get up front and give out info. Seemed like not much was accomplished. Also, even though I have Department Heads for each program we offer, it seemed like they were for the most part real eager to just sit back and let me do all the managing. As the owner /Academic Dean, I am spread pretty thin at times as it is.
Once I decided to spend weekly sessions teaching them, and delegating little projects to them, etc. it seems like our weekly meetings are much more productive. For instance, I recently gave out 2 assignments:
1. I asked them all to write down 5 duties they believe the Dept. Head has.
2. I asked each one to give me 5 areas in which they feel their staff should be evaluated in.
I am finding by brainstorming in this manner, they are all more involved and I am teaching them to stretch and grow professionally. Also, this is taking some of the burden off of my shoulders.
We are in the accreditation process now. The self-study analysis is really helping me to learn to delegate. Brainstorming is helping my staff to professionally grow.
