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Chapter
Leadership
Better Leaders Make Better Chapters “The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined
effort of each individual.” |
Coming into a Leadership Position |
All officers need to be elected, and all officers, no matter how knowledgeable about their positions, need to go through training/transition so they are aware of all that is expected of them in their new positions. |
| • | Officer Elections |
| • | Officer Training and Transition |
The secret to a smooth-running chapter is to have strong officers who work well with one another. Here are some tips to help new officers get off to a running start . . . and keep going. |
| • | The best thing is for outgoing and incoming officers to talk with one another. They should frequently e-mail, meet, and discuss. If the concept of mentorship is strong in the chapter, it will make the transition smooth. |
| • | Hold the first chapter executive committee meeting within six to eight weeks after the new officers take office, preferably in the late spring or early summer so they can begin planning for the next year. |
| • | Provide an opportunity for the previous officers to provide one-on-one orientations with the new officers. |
| • | Develop a calendar to identify tasks for each month. That way positions are not overwhelming. |
| • | It is important to show appreciation for those who volunteer to work for the chapter. This is true for both officers and other members. Announce their names at the start of meetings, have a recognition event at the end of the year, and/or have a recognition column in your newsletter or Web site. Send a note to the member’s supervisor to let that person know that the member has served as an officer. |
| • | The more your board acts as a team that takes pride in one another’s success, the less likely they are to become burned out. |
| • | Communicate, communicate, and communicate! |
Officer Positions |
Click on the position name to go to the specific officer guidebook for that office. |
Chapter Committees |
Committees play an essential role in ensuring the chapter’s health and growth. Effective use of committees can get all the regular members involved and participating, which creates a stronger bond to the chapter and its mission. |
