In the complex ecosystem of association leadership, the Board of Directors plays a critical role, acting as the brain trust that guides strategic direction and innovation. The infusion of diverse perspectives within the boardroom is not merely beneficial; it's a strategic imperative that catalyzes growth and adaptability. This [...]
Volunteering as an association Board or committee member is a valiant role; it is a very selfless role that asks you to give up your personal free time to work towards a better association. A part of contributing to said association is knowing when and where you are valuable [...]
The arrival of new Board members always brings a fresh burst of energy to an association. These individuals, with their diverse backgrounds, skills, and new perspectives bring new life into Board meetings that might otherwise become stale. In this article, I will explore the positive impacts new Board members [...]
"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 [...]
Did you know that June is celebrated globally by many as Pride month? You may have noticed at your local supermarket, an increase in rainbow coloured clothing, decorations and flags lining the shelves. Or perhaps driving downtown, large corporations and small business alike both brandishing window posters and signs [...]
“The unique and multifaceted relationship between the board and its executive is perhaps the most important relationship leading to organizational success or failure. Like the two partners in a skating competition, each side can either bring out the best in the other or prevent the other from skating well.” [...]
You are a female association volunteer leader who has just taken charge of reviewing and updating the association’s Policies and Procedures. It’s a big job. In fact, it’s the most sizeable project you’ve ever taken on in this role. You start to question whether you can do this, and [...]
Let’s face it; no association wants to go into crisis communications mode. But ultimately most will face an internal or external issue requiring immediate attention. How an association fares during and post-crisis depends on how well-prepared it is to handle one. The key to successfully navigating through a crisis [...]
Coming out of the pandemic, I have noticed a divergence amongst Board members as to when they’re available to volunteer. Some opt to do all their volunteer work during office hours to preserve their personal time, while others don’t have flexibility in their schedule to volunteer during traditional work [...]
