12 Principal Skills: Definition and Examples
In order to be a successful project manager, there are 12 skills that you must master. These skills are: 1. Communication 2. Leadership 3. Problem solving 4. Organizational 5. Time management 6. Risk management 7. Negotiation 8. Team building 9. Conflict resolution 10. Financial 11. Change management 12. Project management Each of these skills is essential in order to be a successful project manager. If you can master these skills, you will be well on your way to a successful career in project management.

Principal Skills
- Communication
- Leadership
- Organizational
- Management
- Interpersonal
- Problem solving
- Decision making
- Critical thinking
- Planning and goal setting
- Time management and prioritization
- Conflict resolution
- Public speaking
Communication
Communication is the act of conveying information from one person to another. It is a critical skill for principals because they need to be able to effectively communicate with their staff, students, and parents. They need to be able to convey information clearly and concisely, and they also need to be able to listen carefully and understand what others are saying.
Leadership
Leadership is the ability to inspire and motivate others to achieve a common goal. As a principal, you need this skill to be able to effectively lead your staff and students.
Organizational
Organizational skills are important for principals because they need to be able to manage a lot of different people and tasks at the same time. They need to be able to keep track of what needs to be done and make sure that everything is running smoothly.
Management
Management is the process of organizing and coordinating resources to achieve a specific goal. As a principal, you will need to be able to effectively manage your staff, budget, and resources in order to meet the needs of your students and school community.
Interpersonal
Interpersonal skills are the skills that you use to interact with other people. They include communication, empathy, and teamwork. You need interpersonal skills to be able to effectively work with others.
Problem solving
Problem solving is the ability to identify and solve problems in a timely and effective manner. It is an important skill for principals because they are often responsible for handling difficult situations and finding solutions that work for everyone involved.
Decision making
Decision making is the ability to make choices based on logic and reasoning. It is an important skill for principals because they need to be able to make decisions that are in the best interest of their school and its students.
Critical thinking
Critical thinking is the ability to think clearly and rationally, understanding the logical connection between ideas. It involves the ability to engage in reflective and independent thinking.
Critical thinking is important because it allows you to examine your own thought processes and assumptions, question them, and then improve upon them. It also allows you to see both sides of an issue and come to a well-reasoned conclusion.
Planning and goal setting
The ability to plan and set goals is essential for any leader. Without a clear vision and goals, it can be difficult to make decisions and prioritize tasks. This skill helps leaders to focus on what is important and ensure that their team is working towards the same objectives.
Time management and prioritization
Time management and prioritization is a skill that is needed in order to be an effective leader. It is necessary to be able to manage one's time efficiently in order to get things done and to prioritize tasks in order to ensure that the most important tasks are completed first. This skill is important because it helps leaders to be more productive and to make better decisions.
Conflict resolution
Conflict resolution is the process of resolving a disagreement or dispute. It is often used in the context of mediation, where parties to a conflict agree to meet with a neutral third party to discuss their differences and try to reach a resolution.
This skill is important for principals because they often have to deal with conflict between teachers, students, parents, and other members of the school community. By being able to resolve these conflicts, principals can create a more positive and productive school environment.
Public speaking
Public speaking is the process of communicating a message to an audience. It is an important skill for principals because they often have to give speeches and presentations. They need to be able to effectively communicate their ideas and vision to others.
How to improve principal skills
The principal is the educational leader of a school and, as such, must possess a wide range of skills to be effective. The most important skill for a principal is the ability to lead and inspire others. A principal must be able to articulate a clear and compelling vision for the school and then work with teachers, staff, parents, and students to make that vision a reality. Other essential skills for principals include:
- Strong communication skills: A principal must be able to communicate effectively with all members of the school community. This includes being able to listen carefully and respectfully to others, as well as being able to clearly articulate one’s own ideas.
- Organizational skills: A principal must be able to effectively manage the many different tasks and responsibilities that come with the job. This includes being able to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibility, and stay organized in the face of competing demands.
- Interpersonal skills: A principal must be able to build positive relationships with all members of the school community. This includes being able to resolve conflict peacefully and respectfully, as well as being approachable and understanding.
- Decision-making skills: A principal must be able to make difficult decisions in the best interests of the school. This includes being able to weigh different options and perspectives, consult with others when necessary, and make decisions in a timely manner.
- Flexibility: A principal must be flexible in order to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the school. This includes being open to new ideas, willing to try new things, and responsive to feedback.
How to highlight principal skills
As a Principal, you will want to highlight your skills in leading and managing a school. You should detail your experience in developing and implementing curriculum, as well as your ability to motivate and inspire teachers and staff. Your paragraph should also touch on your experience in budgeting and financial management, as this is an important aspect of the Principal role. Finally, be sure to mention your commitment to ensuring a positive and safe learning environment for all students.
On a resume
To highlight your skills as a Principal on a resume, you should list your experience leading a school and managing staff. You should also include any awards or recognition you have received for your work as a Principal. In addition, you can list any relevant professional development courses or workshops you have attended.
In a cover letter
As a Principal, you will want to highlight your skills in leadership, management, and decision-making. In your cover letter, you can discuss how you have successfully led teams of teachers and administrators, and how you have made decisions that have positively impacted the school community. You can also share your vision for the future of education, and how you plan to continue to improve the quality of education at the school.
During an interview
When you are interviewed for the position of Principal, be sure to highlight your skills as an administrator and leader. Discuss your experience in managing a school and leading a staff, and emphasize your ability to create a positive and productive learning environment. Be prepared to talk about your vision for the school and how you would implement your policies and procedures. Finally, stress your commitment to student success and show how you have helped students reach their potential in the past.