I’m a DoS – well sort of. By that I mean I do DoS-ly stuff like timetabling and grouping and writing reports and holding meetings and doing lesson observations and planning and doing teacher training and like that. But I’m really a teacher. By THAT I mean I think, feel and react like a teacher.
I have been told I’m a good manager, but I know I’m not. How do I know that? Because I can NEVER see it from “management’s point of view”. I mean I CAN, but it doesn’t make any difference to how I feel, think and react. Although management has the upper hand generally speaking – and I DO see it as a “them” and “us” situation – I will stand up to management for my teachers every single time. I rush in elbowing trembling angels out of my way and lay my cards – nay SLAP my cards – hard and noisily on the table. I flail about protesting and urging and begging and pleading and dishing up what I think are very persuasive arguments for the advancement of my teachers – especially in the fiscal department.
What are the net results? I get told one of two things:
“You HAVE to start thinking like a manager. If we did what you wanted, there would be no business.” You think?
“If the teachers aren’t happy…… ” You know the rest.
I’m tired of it today. I shuffled out past the angels and retired to my office and haven’t been heard from since.
Have a good weekend everyone.
Candy'Stripe 
This is exactly how I used to feel when I started in a management position with a well-known English Institution in South Korea. It was incredibly stressful and I had to always be open with teachers, focus on diplomacy between Korean management and Native Teachers. However, I learnt a lot. I learnt that if I was able to develop a professional relationship between management, as well as teachers, my responsibilities became easier. I made sure that I spent time with my teachers but also spent time with my seniors. At the end of the day, don’t let things get too personal and make sure you are able to juggle many responsibilities at the same time. Be open with the teachers, they respect that and focus how you can make a difference. Keep the management happy and don’t become too vocal. It is difficult but the rewards are great. I am not sure if this is any help but I like your blog and it is great to hear someone that is currently in a similar situation to what I was in some years ago.
Hi Martin
Many thanks for stopping by and for your kind words about my blog! I have managed to walk that fine line, but when the going gets tough, I side with the teachers every time! I have learnt how to do it diplomatically and I have also learnt the art of patience – hard lessons both. Please stop by any time…
Candy