Watch the group process in a department or committee meeting. Who helps the group stay on task? Who encourages input from others? What are they concerned about? What do they focus on and why? Reflecting on your observations can help you understand your colleagues. The challenge is to step back from the conversation and allow yourself time to observe them in action.
Understand your colleagues better by asking them about their priorities. Find out what their goals are for the year. Share your goals with your colleagues so that they understand what you are trying to accomplish.
Learn from Others
Identify someone you need to mentor who is a mid-career faculty member. Read this Inside Higher Ed article to frame a conversation you can initiate to offer help. Discuss the recommendations and suggest the faculty member use the “weekly challenge” the article outlines as a tool. As you mentor, you will explore the process and learn more, as well.
Seek out a different perspective. Read this Inside Higher Ed article that begins with, "I’m beginning to think academic affairs leaders are from Mars and student affairs leaders are from Venus." Understanding Student Affairs by talking to their leaders may make it easier to improve student services and resolve student issues in your department. Be proactive by taking a step to get to know a leader in GW’s Division of Student Affairs.
