MECHANISMS FOR SHAPING THE PROFESSIONAL IMAGE OF A PRESCHOOL EDUCATION LEADER

Abstract

This article examines theoretical and practical mechanisms for shaping the professional image of a leader in a preschool education organization. Professional image is conceptualized as a stable social perception reflecting a leader’s professional competence, communication culture, management style, ethical stance, and quality of interaction with staff, parents, and external stakeholders. The study systematizes key image-building mechanisms: institutional (regulations and internal governance), communicative (dialogue and collaboration with staff and parents), reputational (performance outcomes and trust), personal-developmental (leadership, self-management, reflection), and digital (online communication and media presence). The paper argues that a positive professional image contributes to managerial effectiveness, a healthy organizational climate, and public trust in preschool services, and it offers conceptual recommendations for strategic image management in early childhood education leadership.