Liz Wiseman IMPACT PLAYERS: How to Take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply Your Impact
Early in our school improvement turnaround efforts, teachers and I were introduced to the work of researcher John Hatti. His meta-analysis of multiple studies provides an effect size of what we choose to do and not do matters—a lot to our students. It is our responsibility as educators to “Know Thy Impact.”
When I picked up Liz Wiseman’s book Impact Players, I was hopeful in getting even more insights to further my impact as an instructional leader in an elementary school. “While others add to the load, Impact Players make heavy demands feel lighter.” Our load as educators is a heavy lift on a good day, not to say it without joy or fulfillment, but it’s an ongoing, complicated juggle.
Wiseman lists five key practices of an Impact Player, the assumptions and habit mindsets they purposefully pursue, and the positive implications their actions can have on themselves and others. Impact Players provides a path and a guide for a leader who learns along the way while empowering those who are on the journey with you.
Starting with, do the job. Not the job you want to do but the job that needs to get done. Learn and play as you go with drive and passion. It requires being responsive and flexible as you build the reputation of getting the job done. “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity, but you are not sure you can do it, say yes—then learn how to do it later.” It’s not a call of duty or martyr mindset, but developing a making 'it” better perspective...whatever your “it” is. Parent-pick up anyone?
Then remembering there is a lot of background noise in the school community. What is the buzz and hum on what is on educators' minds in staff room conversations? A principal is a decision-maker, but it’s not always us that needs to lead. An Impact Player can identify the need, enpower others, and then step back and watch them lead. Most likely not without stumbles, but “creates a culture of courage, initiative, and agility.” Staff wellness committee, anyone?
Also, an Impact Player finishes stronger than when they started. They set a vision, not in isolation but in collaboration, and work on a plan with the end goal in mind. They show strength, demonstrate resilience, and behind their smile is true grit. This mindset is framed as I can do hard things well and own the outcome. They can ask and receive critical feedback while anticipating challenges and identifying milestones. Impact Players get the job done and including a few unexpected bonuses thrown in. The Impact Player is neither “worn out nor depleted” but has set a worthy pace for physical, mental, and emotional health. Jog-A-Thon organizer lead, anyone?
Impact Players “adapt and learn faster than their peers.” How? They ask and then adjust. They have developed a confident mindset but understand there is still room to “grow and evolve” through their effort and current ability. They know what they don’t know yet, so they become coachable. They “level up their own game and raise the bar for everyone on the team.” Together they create “a culture of learning and innovation” while remaining relevant. “They avoid drama. Things don’t get to them. They are compassionate but refuse to be an actor in any soap opera.” School improvement leadership team, anyone?
An Impact Player “creates a positive and productive work environment for everyone on the team.” They make hard work lighter and better for everyone contributing. More importantly, they make others feel valued as a team member. They “develop a reputation as high-performing, no-nonsense players everyone wants to work with.” The feeling of inclusion is almost tangible. Spirit Week Planning Team, anyone?
"If you want to make a difference, look around. Notice what needs your attention. Tap into your passion and your purpose, and find a way to contribute, to create impact, to play bigger and better.” Be your version of an Impact Player to lead, play, and multiply the possibilities around you.
