The saying goes “The fox knows many things; the hedgehog one great thing"
I was introduced recently to two very different cognitive theory styles ‘The Hedgehog and the Fox’ by Philosopher Isaiah Berlin - an interesting lens through which to view different leadership styles.
The parable suggests Hedgehogs are more decisive, big ideas people compared to Foxes, accepting of nuance, open and versatile in using different approaches with different problems.
The saying goes “The fox knows many things; the hedgehog one great thing".
So what are Executive Assistants - a hedgehog or a fox? Well after taking a short quiz - it turns out I am a fox!
Upon further reading 'Hedgehogs and Foxes at the Crossroads: Leadership and Diversity at the University of California' Gonzales says that often a hedgehog or fox trait can be more dominant in a person, but that great leaders combine both traits.
Hedgehogs are transformational leaders, while foxes are more transactional. Primarily, hedgehogs are more intellectual in their outlook while foxes are more personable, able to seek solutions through human interactions. Hedgehogs may have tunnel vision, a long-range view connecting the past and the future compared to foxes encompassing a short-range, circular view - they are not blind.
With these learnings in mind, I would say perhaps Executive Assistants tend to be more confronted with fox-like activities. This idea, aligns with the versatile nature of the role, requiring adaptability, a range of skills, and the ability to navigate various situations. I would also go onto say that Executive Assistants in Education, are also known as the ‘how’ type of people referred to in Sinek’s Golden Circle model - we get things done to accomplish the ‘why’.
Perhaps ‘principals’ potentially embody hedgehog-like qualities focused on the ‘why’ - but I am not equipped nor an expert to make this assumption and perhaps no-one can be pigeonholed - both types complimenting one another.
I would say however, that you certainly need both hedgehogs and foxes in any organisation for its overall operation and ultimate success. The complementary nature of these traits often leads to a more well-rounded approach to problem-solving and decision-making.
If you’re feeling a bit isolated in your role, and would like to benefit from the support, advice and learnings of a group of likeminded Education Administrative Professionals working for Executive Senior Leadership Teams in schools - consider joining our community - a national network dedicated solely to supporting Education EAs!
