Task Forces are valuable for associations for a number of reasons. They play an integral role in addressing specific challenges or new initiatives and driving the organization’s missions and goals. Task forces perform within a specific timeframe and strive to make each meeting actionable to ensure maximum efficiencies and [...]
Effective financial management combines organization, objectives, tasks, and renewed processes by Board and management, as well as the financial stability and profits of the association. Most association financial management plans can be broken down into four elements. These four elements include planning, controlling, organizing and directing, and decision-making. With [...]
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy As an association volunteer leader, you face challenges and decisions every day. Along the path to progress, gratitude is an important [...]
Who is your customer? How straight forward and easy a question is this for your association? For some associations, this is easy, members. For others it isn’t as simple, so Boards need to stop, assess, and ask this important question. Associations spend money on strategic planning. Post pandemic, strategic [...]
The association’s long-time executive director who managed every aspect of the professional association, is leaving and to fulfill this role, the association’s Board of Directors has hired an association management company (AMC). But what does this mean? How will it benefit membership? And will it be expensive? Just a [...]
Key message training for an association’s Board of Directors is often thought as a tactic when the organization is in crisis communications mode. But the fact is, it is an essential aspect of effective communications and governance. It helps to ensure Board members are all on the same page [...]
Welcome back to part two of The Association Coordinator – A Vital Role. Association coordinators play a pivotal role in the success and smooth functioning of various organizations, be it professional associations, non-profits, or industry groups. Their responsibilities range from managing memberships to organizing events, ensuring effective communications, and [...]
As a volunteer association leader, being present is not just about being seen, and physically showing up to wave the flag at your association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), or Conference, it’s about being fully engaged in the moment. What Does it Mean to Be Present? Being present refers to [...]
"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart." – Elizabeth Andrew. Recently I saw a post on an association's member forum with a negative comment about the Board of Directors and the perks they receive. It shocked me that association members may not see or understand [...]
Young people increasingly prioritize working for, buying from, and involving themselves with companies and organizations that align with their values [1], [2]. Values are important for associations, too, creating the foundation of strategy and providing clear expectations around behaviours and decision-making. I know first-hand the consequences of not [...]
