In the world of member-driven organizations, leadership transitions can bring profound change. When a new leader steps into a Board that has been operating with a steady, measured hand, the transition can spark transformative progress. But change, even when positive, often brings complexity. The Quiet, Steady Board: Sustaining, [...]
Committees play a pivotal role in the governance and operational efficiency of associations. Their effectiveness hinges on the strategic engagement of all members and the adept leadership of their chairs. Here are key strategies to elevate committee performance: 1. Establish Clear Objectives and Roles Begin with defining precise objectives [...]
For members, associations are a place where members can contribute, grow, and thrive, making them a community to many. Since being a part of a community is largely about being a part of something greater than oneself, building a community where association members gain a sense of belonging and [...]
I remember fondly, the activity of setting up the water pump to draw water from a nearby lake every spring at the family cottage. This activity would ensure that we had enough water on hand for the entire season. My dad referred to this activity as “priming the pump.” [...]
An association task force plays an integral role in addressing specific challenges, championing new initiatives and driving the organization’s missions and goals. It is different than a committee as highlighted by my former colleague’s recent blog here. But when an association’s task force is divided on a particular issue [...]
When we’re busy, organized and effective record-keeping often falls to the bottom of the list. In between emails or rushing from your day job to an evening Board meeting, you save a few important organizational documents in a new shared folder, call it “Misc” (miscellaneous) and call it a [...]
I've been thinking a lot about what frustrates association volunteer leaders based on my own experience and those I work with. I now see the work of associations divided into two columns: proactive work and reactive work. Some might see proactive work as positive and reactive work as negative. [...]
Congratulations on starting your journey as an association leader! Welcome to a very dynamic and fast paced environment, rich with adventure and problem solving. As you get started, your first tasks are to understand your role and equally, your association(s). Getting to know your association quickly requires a strategic [...]
Association committees play a crucial role in the functioning and success of an organization. They can be structured to focus on various aspects of the organization's operations, member services, and strategic goals. Common types of association committees include executive, finance, awards, chapters, etc. Engaging association members to volunteer for [...]
Curating a new association event and seeing it come to fruition is exciting. Yes, logistically a new event can be a lot of work but the pay off is so worth it! There’s nothing more exciting then creating a new event that excites members and illuminates the value of [...]
