Leading volunteers by avoiding allergies
Determining the right formula for your group rests on the one question we ask continually as leaders
You want to give back, pay it forward, be a servant leader, or one of those great quotes we see on social media memes. So you join a volunteer organization to do so. Great idea! But with many great ideas, they come with challenges.
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I sat on a charity board for several years, arguably one of my best experiences. Why? Because people asked for money, and if it fit within the extensive parameters of the bylaws, we gave it to them. At last count, we had given away nearly $1 Million to local groups.
As I noted, the charity had few restrictions on giving money away. The bylaws had been previously changed twice to make them even more expansive. During the initial stages of Covid, I asked if we could widen the bylaws to help struggling small businesses.
After 2 or 3 meetings and a series of debates to discuss the change, the motion was voted down. At that point, I licked my wounds and was ready to proceed to the next agenda point. Then one of the board members commented, "these businesses are doing just fine with their take-out business." She then pushed on to open discussions for the $5,000 grant request from the museum.
Before there was a vote on the subsequent motion, I resigned.
I bring this point up not to complain. But as a lesson. Something happened that dramatically changed my feelings. It wasn't losing; I am a salesman and lose all the time. But, it was more profound than that.
What was the real why?
My long-time readers have heard this question over and over again. What is the why? The entire charity board agreed on the 'purpose' of the organization. It was a great purpose. We funded a host of great projects.
But what happened for me to resign immediately?
Outside of my family, my big WHY in everything I do is to assist and support small businesses. I attempt to do so through this blog, my work with the Chamber of Commerce, and my coaching business. Helping small businesses is very important to me.
My main why was disregarded, and this career politician mocked it. When someone slaps you across the face, you can turn the other cheek or slap back. My why is important to me and I feel it is similar to defending your spouse when they are attacked. There is only one good decision. You slap back.
Know your group why's
How do you lead or manage a group of volunteers? The first thing is finding out why they are there. Remember, it's not the organization's purpose that is the driving factor; it's how their why matches up to it.
If one of your volunteers only has Tuesday nights available, that might be the sole reason they signed up for your group. If you changed your meeting days, you could lose them. And you might not know why.
There are dozens of places that offer overlapping purposes. The Rotary, Kiwanis, Shriners, and others focus on helping kids and the community. If you are leading a group of volunteers, you must recognize that you have competition for members. So why did Joe and Mary sign up for your group?
You must find out why. Dig beneath the surface. Understand what is essential to everyone. For example, business issues weren't a problem for the 7-years I volunteered on the charity board, but when it became an issue - certain people on the board dismissed it.
The results of the group are great. However, it's up to you as a leader to connect the dots. How do you marry their needs and wants and connect them with the goals and objectives of the club? How do you avoid stepping on something tremendously important to your volunteers?
Don't question their motives!
Your organization has a common goal. For example, how do you apply this theory to creating a successful event?
As part of the Chamber, I work on community events. Let me tell you as open and honestly as I can - I hate events! I don't care what happens from the time they start until the time they end. I avoid events in my personal life (other than Lions Football), so it is safe to say that I am not an expert on them.
Why am I involved? Remember my why: I want to help support small businesses. My focus for events is fundraising and promotion. My job is raising funds and to give sponsors their money's worth in advertising. I have no control or interest in the event's activities.
I leave the event planning and activities to those who care about it. I don't question them unless they are over budget. I stay in my lane and try to keep others in theirs. When people disregard or interfere in your lane, it's like stepping on their why. You need to be careful, or you may just lose their support all-together.
In the end, the attendees will return if the event planners did their jobs. The sponsors will come back if they are happy with the advertising. If both are happy, you can all say that you put on a successful event. That was the stated goal. Success can be defined in many ways. Success to me personally was happy sponsors. Make sure you know what variables your volunteers feel most strongly about.
Peanut allergy
My final metaphor:
If you know a guest has a terrible peanut allergy, you wouldn't serve them, would you? All the nut bowls will be put away, and your menu will accommodate the guest. As a leader, it is essential for you to know what the allergies are.
Get to know your team members. Do not assume that they have the same motivations as you do. It's like telling someone with an allergy, "but they are good for you".
Start with Why like Simon Sinek's book says. There is a why for the group, and each member has their own unique why. Having a tough time defining or finding them? Give us a call at The Kole Performance Group, it's hard work today but it will provide a better tomorrow.
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