Those of you who have followed my blogs or have attended a presentation I’ve given know that one of my favorite fundraising axioms is Leadership is Everything.
After we do the hard work of identifying and recruiting “Big L” leaders, we need to use this new-found leadership asset wisely.
Walking out of a client board meeting recently, I was stopped in the parking lot by one of the new “Big L” leaders we had recruited to the board just six months prior. After a few minutes of catching up, I asked him how he was enjoying his board assignment. He paused for a minute and finally said, ”It’s fine, but I feel like they are driving me like a Chevy. I have more to offer and I guess we shall see if they figure that out…”
His comment really bothered me. This was a community leader we had carefully and thoughtfully recruited on to the board. When leaders express these feelings, it’s an early warning sign that they are not fully engaged, and may be drifting away.
“Big L” leaders are looking for projects that matter. They want to know that their skills, influence and connections are making a real difference in the community. They expect accountability and action. Nothing will frustrate them more than a board meeting that is simply one committee report after another or to be bogged down in administrative details.
Here are two ways to make sure you’re “driving” your leaders wisely:
Have an annual one-on-one visit with each of your board members.Review their involvement, gauge their satisfaction and seek their advice. Get to know their interests and hopes for your organization and the community.
Tap into your “Big L” leader’s strengths and gifts. Each board member brings something unique to the table. As the volunteer uses her talents on your behalf, she’ll become more engaged with your organization over time.
Not every volunteer will have the influence or skills of a “Big L” leader, but all volunteers should be given the opportunity to give their best effort to your organization or campaign. When the right volunteers are matched with the right need, magic happens. Let’s not recruit “Cadillac” board members and volunteers and then drive them like a Chevy.
