Learn who on staff has influence and stature. Some of the school's leaders will have titles, will speak up in meetings, and may be quick to provide information via email. They will seek you out to ensure that you understand who they are and what is important to them and the school.
Some of the school's leaders will be quiet and unassuming. They will not distinguish themselves to you immediately. They will be observing, listening, reserving judgment. Other staff members will be talking with these unofficial leaders to find out their opinions and to get their advice on the issues of the day.
This informal network of influence can be very powerful when the school is on the move and changes are being discussed. If you get to know and understand the informal leaders, you will have an important additional avenue for trying out new ideas, getting feedback prior to making public statements, and a way to keep yourself from stepping on any hidden sacred carpets by accident. Stepping on a sacred carpet can set your planning back indefinitely. So get to know your leaders--both formal and informal.
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