Leading with Heart: 5 Ways to Build Stronger Relationships with Your Team
In this blog post we explore how fostering trust, communication, and empathy can strengthen your leadership impact with 5 ways to build stronger relationships with teams.
Educational leadership isn’t just about making schedules, setting goals, or ensuring that nobody sets off the fire alarm microwaving leftover chicken and rice (again). It’s about people. At the heart of every successful school is a leader who knows how to build meaningful relationships with their team. A strong, connected team doesn’t just work together—they thrive together.
If you want to create a school culture where teachers feel valued, supported, and motivated, here are five ways to strengthen your relationships and lead with heart.
1. Listen Like You Mean It
We’ve all been guilty of “uh-huh-ing” while mentally drafting the next email, but true leadership requires intentional listening. When a teacher or staff member comes to you with a concern, idea, or even just a funny classroom story, give them your full attention.
Make eye contact (not in a creepy way—just enough to show you’re present).
Ask follow-up questions to show you’re engaged.
Resist the urge to jump in with solutions too quickly—sometimes, people just need to be heard.
By truly listening, you build trust, and trust is the foundation of strong relationships.
2. Be Visible and Approachable
Nobody wants a leader who only emerges from their office when there’s a problem. Make it a habit to walk the halls, pop into classrooms, and engage in casual conversations.
Greet staff in the morning (a simple “Good morning!” goes a long way).
Recognize great teaching in action (even if it’s just a quick, “That was an awesome lesson—I wish I had you as a teacher!”).
Be available outside of formal meetings—sometimes, the best insights come from informal hallway chats.
A leader who is present creates a school culture where people feel seen and valued.
3. Celebrate the Wins (Big and Small)
Teaching is tough, and sometimes, the small victories are just as important as the big ones. Make sure to celebrate successes—not just test scores and major achievements, but also the everyday moments that make a difference.
Shout out a teacher who nailed a new instructional strategy.
Acknowledge a staff member who went above and beyond for a student.
Send a handwritten note, email, or even a silly award (like “Best Classroom Coffee Smell” or “Most Creative Use of Whiteboard Markers”).
When people feel appreciated, they are more motivated and engaged in their work.
4. Lead with Empathy and Grace
School leaders set the tone for the entire building. When you lead with empathy, you create an environment where people feel safe, respected, and valued.
If a teacher is struggling, ask how you can support them rather than just pointing out areas for improvement.
Recognize that people have personal lives and challenges outside of school.
Handle mistakes with grace—nobody’s perfect, and sometimes the copier will jam five minutes before a lesson.
A little kindness goes a long way in creating a school culture where people feel comfortable bringing their best selves to work.
5. Model What You Expect
Want a school filled with positivity, collaboration, and respect? Walk your talk and model it. Your team is always watching how you handle stress, communicate with others, and navigate challenges.
If you want staff to be open to feedback, show that you welcome it too.
If you expect teachers to keep a growth mindset, demonstrate your own willingness to learn and adapt.
If you want a supportive school culture, be the first to offer encouragement and support.
When leaders walk the talk, they inspire their teams to do the same.
Final Thoughts
Building strong relationships isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about consistent, everyday actions that show your team you care. By listening with intention, being present, celebrating wins, leading with empathy, and modeling the values you want to see, you’ll create a school culture where teachers feel supported and motivated. And when teachers feel valued, they bring their best to the classroom, which ultimately benefits students.
So, go ahead—grab that caffeine, take a lap around the school, and start leading with heart. Your team (and your students) will thank you for it.
Are you ready to invest in yourself? I’d love to empower you as your Leadership Coach!