Academe is a very different culture than business, government, or NGOs. But careful listening and good guidance from senior cabinet members can help a new leader acclimatize to shared governance and establish a good working relationship with faculty.
Idea Lab
Nontraditional leaders from business, NGOs, or government face pitfalls and suspicions. But seasoned administrators can acclimatize them to the strange new world of shared governance.
News
Find your unofficial “kitchen cabinet” of advisers, and other advice from a consultant who became a dean.
The Review
New leaders must be open to learning the culture of higher education, and faculty members must give them time.