Sponsored by The Laurence W. Levine

Foundation

With T. Alan HurwitzCalifornia State University, Fresno

May 11, 2013

A successful leader evolves while an unsuccessful leader regresses.

The process of becoming an effective leader takes you through a huge range of learning and hands-on experiences starting with a small role, gaining experience at every level on your way to the next leadership role. Leadership roles take place anywhere and anytime: school, work, non-profit organization, community work, and special projects.

Effective leadership involves listening more than speaking.

“Change happens by listening and then starting a dialogue with the people who are doing something you don’t believe is right.” by Jane Goodall

Before a leader makes a hard decision, s/he should consult with all concerned people, giving each person an opportunity to share his/her thoughts.

When a leader is ready to change jobs, s/he must not “run away” to another job opportunity. S/he must be secure and doing well in his/her current job before s/he branches out in search of the next fulfilling. Through the process of evolving and taking on more personally fulfilling jobs, s/he will be seen by others as a successful leader.

During the process of working his/her way up and assuming more and more challenges in newer and more important jobs, the leader will need more specialized interpreters. The interpreters required to work successfully with a high ranking, more prominent leader are designated interpreters with very special skills for handling complex, high powered conversations.

Team Building is an art of creative communication and special relationships.

Constantly networking with people is an investment in leadership. It gathers new leadership opportunities.

Badmouthing others stops professional development and stunts growth. In the same vein, never play a blame game.

Giving credit to your team for successes and taking full responsibilities for failures is the surest way of being appreciated and valued by your colleagues, bosses, and the community.

Confidentiality is a complicated issue good leaders struggle with. It is a major issue among professionals in our Deaf world.

◦ Learn◦Enthusiasm◦Attitude◦Development◦Empathy◦Respect◦Satisfaction◦Honesty◦ Involvement◦Patience

T. Alan Hurwitz, President Gallaudet University Office of the President 800 Florida Ave, N.E. Washington, D. C. 20002

Alan.hurwitz@gallaudet.edu