Within a group or organization there are many people of diverse talents. Some might be interested in the specific, often legal language of bylaws and like to serve on the bylaws committee. Others might be better at social committees or planning committees. If you're a chair, get to know the strengths of individual members. Don't just use those with obvious skills, or those who have been asked to serve in the past.

As a leader, you should serve as a role model to encourage those who don't step forward because they're shy or insecure or feel inexperienced at serving in some capacity.

Have You Served?

If you're someone who has not stepped forward yet to offer your time and talents, think about the opportunity you're missing to contribute and have a voice in a group you're interested enough in to be a member. You may have the enthusiasm that some others are lacking, or a different approach that hasn't been tried yet. Whether you're male or female, a full-time parent and homemaker or employed outside the home, you can develop and polish skills that help you professionally as well as personally.

Keeping Things Moving

“New blood” is important to the health and well-being of any organization. Perhaps something's been tried before and it didn't work. It doesn't mean it can't succeed this time — some facet of the idea may be different. No organization is old because its members are; organizations become old by having the same old ideas and using the same old thinking over and over again — which can happen in a younger group, too! Using Robert's Rules isn't just about recognizing parliamentary procedure; it's about having a democratic organization that regards each member as a vital and necessary participant.

Are you presiding or presenting at a meeting, session, or convention? Learning what each is and some easy tips to save time and work more effectively will make you a valuable chair or presenter. Knowledgeable and efficient chairpersons and presenters are worth their weight in gold to members who have limited time and to groups and organizations that need the help of everyone to accomplish goals.