“Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it onto future generations.”
 —George Bernard Shaw

What Is Officer Training and Transition?

Most successful chapters implement some form of officer transition program. To be most effective, officer terms should provide at least one month of overlap so that new officers have the opportunity to work closely with outgoing officers and to understand the roles and responsibilities of their respective leadership positions.

To prepare incoming officers for the responsibilities of their new positions

To prevent incoming officers from “reinventing the wheel”

To instill a sense of comfort and pride with incoming officers’ new positions

To provide an opportunity for outgoing officers to reflect on the successes during their administration

When there is a change in officers, a meeting between the outgoing and incoming officers always should take place.

Training Responsibilities

The President is responsible for coordinating the training of the chapter’s officers. The goal of this training is to make certain that each person fully understands how to do his or her job, what is expected, and any benefits awarded for doing that job.
A well-trained officer ensures that the chapter remains in compliance with national standards and is thereby eligible for monetary incentives and national leadership opportunities. Well-trained officers know how and when to do their jobs.

Discuss past, current, and future issues so that the incoming leadership is prepared.

Discuss the financial status of the chapter. Review financial statements (available from the Treasurer).

Transfer records (bank account info, financial, internal, etc.) during a transition meeting. Be sure to highlight important information.

Create informational/resource binders for every important leadership position in the organization.

Create a reflection and goal-setting session with the entire chapter membership. Find out in what direction members want to take the chapter—then, meet as an Executive Committee and establish goals and objectives for the chapter.

Incoming and Outgoing Officer Meeting Checklist

Officer Training Resources

A wealth of resources are available to chapters for training officers. For officers to do their jobs effectively, they should use the training tools and information available to them. In addition to training manuals, Regional Chapter Coordinators present live Webinar trainings for chapter officers. Most information is geared toward Collegiate Chapters, but it may be worthwhile for a Professional/Alumni Chapter officer to participate.