Reflections on Leadership: The Power of Questions
Posted: June 10, 2024 by Alexander Wisnoski
Alexander Wisnoski is Associate Department Head for History, Anthropology, and Philosophy, and winner of the 2022 Emerging Leader Award.
During my first year at ǧÃŬAV, a few things stuck out to me. First, the overwhelming kindness that I experienced from folks in my department during the campus visit remained. I kept expecting the other shoe to drop and the stereotypical gossip and turf struggles to begin. But it turned out that I was incredibly lucky, and these folks I work with are just genuinely kind and amazing.
The second surprise was how quickly I was treated as a colleague. This experience held true throughout most of my early interactions but was especially noticeable during my conversations with the Department Head, Jeff Pardue. Within my first few months, I remember him asking me for helpful strategies to spur discussion in one of those notoriously quiet classes. I can still recall being caught off guard by being asked for suggestions.
Being new to ǧÃŬAV, I had gotten used to being the one asking questions and wanting help. I had a steady stream of questions for Jeff related to classroom assignments, online forms, where to find my mailbox, and more. The expected insecurities and impostor syndrome were kept at bay by my generous colleagues. Jeff's simple request for discussion strategies helped me to internalize that I was a full member of the department and that my experience and expertise mattered.
As time went on, I noticed how often Jeff sought out perspectives from other folks. This showed me that a good leader doesn't need to have all the answers. His willingness to solicit ideas and opinions from across the department signaled to everyone in that he listened carefully and valued their views. It's no surprise that Jeff often had folks chatting in his office, and not just about work.
His example also affirmed to me that this was a community that thrives on collaboration and exchange. Because of Jeff, I felt comfortable getting feedback from colleagues. I asked about how to navigate a seminar class when students seemed to get behind on the reading. I asked for advice on materials to teach the history of Hinduism. I asked for strategies on managing my time when grading three classes worth of exams all at once.
I continued to have questions for Jeff, and even as I have started a term as Associate Department Head, I still ask him questions.