5 Strategies I Learned from Daniel Priestley

To revolutionize our education system, we need courageous teachers to step up.

I speak to hundreds of educators every week, and it’s clear there’s no shortage of radical thinkers who want to lead change — the problem is that the system is inadequate to incentivize them.

The priority is to keep the system running smoothly, not to develop innovators who will change the system.

I am often asked for advice by aspiring teachers and leaders looking for a new direction. It usually happens at the end of a talk or in a LinkedIn direct message when I get home that evening. The question is: “I really want to do what you’re doing, how do I do it?” The answer is not simple, and it takes years of hard work and a bit of luck. But the key catalyst for me was a book by Daniel Priestley. Key influential figures.

For those of you in education who are wondering, “How can I become an influential person in my field?” Let me explain what worked for me from Daniel Priestley’s book and other resources.

Five Strategies

Before we get into the topic, there is nothing shameful about being ambitious. If you want the best for your students in the education system, have great ideas to make it happen, and are ready to put them into action, sitting quietly in a classroom won’t cut it. The education system needs you to start influencing the people around you.

1. Create a compelling sales pitch

A presentation is a powerful expression of your unique approach. It communicates what you bring to the table and the impact you will have.

In his book Key influential figuresDaniel Priestley emphasizes, “The ability to communicate your value and uniqueness through the words you speak. Key influencers can answer the question, ‘What do you do?’ powerfully and clearly.”

My recommendations are now focused on helping educators harness the benefits of AI in the classroom, now and into the future. They are concise yet impactful: providing teachers with the strategies and tools they need to help their students succeed in an AI-driven future.

“If you offer something of value but no one understands it, you’re not going to get any further,” Priestley explains.

I want you to go further.

2. Become a published author

Write that book. Right now.

I remember when I was struggling to write my first book, my friend Jamie Smith told me, “A few weeks of suffering will bring years of reward.” His words gave me the final push.

In the digital age, there are countless platforms through which teachers can share their expertise. Whether it’s a blog post, a journal article, or a book, publishing can help you establish yourself as an authority in your field.

Priestley emphasizes this point: “Published content creates a sense of ownership and authority in your chosen niche. A published book, article or report tells the world that you’re an authority in your field.”

My journey began with articles in newsletters, then guest articles in educational magazines, books, and now articles in Forbes magazine. Each publication has expanded my influence and credibility.

You may hold the keys to helping the education system, but unless you become an authority and expand your influence, you are not helping anyone.

3. Build a strong profile

Your online presence is your digital business card and is often the first impression you make to potential collaborators and employers.

In an interview with the YouTube show Deep Dive with Ali Abdaal, Priestley suggests a structured approach: “When building your profile, I use what I call the ‘SALT’ method, which stands for Social Media, Awards & Associations, Live Events, and Third Party Platforms.”

Providing value on social media is the starting point for many thought leaders, and I am no exception. By consistently sharing valuable content, you will gain trust and an audience.

4. Take advantage of opportunities to increase visibility

To increase your impact, it’s important to step out of your comfort zone.

Look for opportunities to present at conferences, lead workshops, or participate in webinars. I’ve been speaking for free at events for years while building my profile alongside my day job. You never know who might be in the audience. Two years ago, after speaking for free at a conference in London, my now good friend Ian Phillips asked me to go to Hong Kong to work with educators. This led to other opportunities in Oman and Dubai. At the same London event, I made a connection who invited me to speak at Bett (the world’s largest EdTech conference). Speaking at Bett led to countless more bookings, and I returned again a year later to give a keynote speech.

I share this not to brag, but to show the power of making yourself visible. Through each opportunity, I was not only able to share my knowledge, but also learn from others and expand my network.

5. Master the art of storytelling

People are obsessed with stories. Stories inspire us and change us. And so are teachers.

In an interview on the SaaS Academy Podcast, Priestley emphasizes the importance of “radical empathy” in storytelling, which means truly understanding your audience’s perspective and customizing your message to resonate with their experiences and needs.

As an educator, you likely have great stories, advice, and practical help from your own experiences. Combine them. Stories are the vehicle for impact.

In my presentations, I like to tell lots of stories: my own story, stories of people I know, and fascinating stories of people I don’t know. Stories humanize people.

A change-maker’s journey

Becoming an education change agent doesn’t happen overnight; it requires dedication, continuous learning, and a willingness to share knowledge and experiences.

My journey from classroom teaching to my current job has been gradual, with countless small steps. My influence has grown incrementally through blog posts, conference presentations, and networking events. Moments of doubt and setbacks are constant, but each challenge presents an opportunity to grow.

As education continues to evolve, especially with the integration of AI and other technologies, the input of experienced, innovative educators is more important than ever. By positioning yourself as a thought leader, you can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education.

If you’re an educator looking to expand your impact, start implementing these strategies today. Share your unique insights, embrace new opportunities, and step out of your comfort zone. Your voice and experience are valuable, and the education field needs passionate, innovative teachers to lead the future.

Remember, real influence isn’t about self-promotion, it’s about pointing people to your message.