First Impressions, Lasting Impact: Building Teacher Relationships from Day One

by Katie Maciulewicz

Welcome back!

This year on the blog, we’re doing a deep dive into the ways in which the Core of Coaching Framework can support our coaching work across the board, starting with Domain 1: Building Relationships. According to the framework, “Relationships are the foundation upon which all coaching activities are built. Without trust and rapport, even the most well-intentioned coaching strategies are unlikely to succeed.”

So, here we are at the start of a new school year; it's prime time to build those foundational relationships with teachers! A strong beginning sets the stage for everything that follows, and here are some ways you can start out strong. 

Introduce Yourself Intentionally

With new teachers, this is your chance to make a strong first impression. Hopefully you have a moment to share your role and how you can provide support during new teacher orientation. Don't just hand out a business card; give them a glimpse of who you are as a person, your experience as an educator, and how coaching can benefit their teaching practice. 

One good way to introduce yourself and clarify your role at the same time is to prepare a simple, one-sentence elevator pitch. If you use the “I am, I do, so that” format that we use at Coaches Camp, it could look like this:

For returning staff, a simple "Hey, it's [Your Name], your instructional coach! I'm really looking forward to working with you again this year" can go a long way. Send out a brief, friendly email introducing yourself or re-introducing your role and services for the year. You could even create a short video or a fun infographic to share.

Whatever you do, remember to engage as an equal, fostering a sense of partnership from the start. You’re just another part of the team, not someone they should avoid or be afraid to reach out to!

Clarify Your Role

It’s important to provide immediate, tangible resources that clarify your role and how teachers can work with you. Think about creating an Instructional Coaching Menu, like this customizable template, or an informational bookmark with information about yourself, what you do, and your contact information.

This isn't just about sharing your contact info; it's about making your support concrete and accessible. What kinds of support do you offer? Classroom observations, co-planning, technology integration, curriculum development, or even just a listening ear? List these out. 

Include a simple "how-to" for requesting support, whether it's an online form, a sign-up sheet in the staff lounge, or simply swinging by your office. This visual reminder serves as a beacon of assistance, letting teachers know exactly how you can help them navigate the challenges of the school year.

Be Present and Available

Seriously, it's that simple. In the whirlwind of back-to-school season, teachers are juggling a million things at once. Being a visible, friendly face can make all the difference. Remember your time in the classroom – the craziness of the beginning of the school year – and think about the things you would have loved to have help with. Pop into classrooms (briefly!), offer a hand with setting up, or simply hang out in the hallways during passing periods to chat. Whatever you do, don't hide in your office. These seemingly small gestures show you're part of the team and ready to support them.

Focus on Establishing Trust and Rapport

This is the bedrock of any successful coaching relationship. As instructional coaches, our main goal is to make a difference in the lives of teachers and students every day. We want to create sustainable change that spreads across the department, the school, and the district. And you can't create sustainable change if teachers don't trust you. 

First, teachers need to understand who you are and the specifics of your role. Any communication should emphasize confidentiality and a non-judgmental approach, making it clear your goal is to support growth, not to criticize. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to explicitly communicate this message.

Additionally, just be a professional with integrity. Do what you say you’re going to do. Follow up on questions from teachers within 24 hours and conversations within a week – don’t leave them hanging. 

Celebrate Wins

The beginning of the year can be overwhelming for everyone, and positive reinforcement goes a long way. Coaches can provide personalized feedback, celebrate successes, and create opportunities for educators to share their expertise with colleagues. Even if it's a simple "That lesson flow was fantastic!" or "I noticed how you handled that classroom disruption so smoothly," acknowledging their hard work helps build confidence and shows them you're paying attention in a supportive way.

Congrats, coach! You’re well on your way to building strong, lasting relationships with teachers from day one. Go forth and connect!

💾 Want more? 

• 📚 Read
• Domain 1 of the Core of Coaching Framework: Relationship Building
• Communication Strategies for Instructional Coaches: Building Teacher Relationships
• The Intersection of Maslow’s & Coaching
• The Power of Psychological Safety in Coaching
• 🔊 Listen to the Restart Recharge podcast
• Market Yourself!
• The Walking Coach - with Adam Juarez & Katherine Goyette
• Keeping it Simple: Empathetic and Practical EdTech Coaching
• New Coach, New Building, New Beginnings
• 🎬 Watch (EDU Coach Network All-Access Members only)
• WEBINAR: 3 Strategies for Forming Authentic Connections with Teachers this Year
• VIRTUAL WORKSHOP: Fostering Relationships with Animated E-Cards