5 steps to driving change in a volunteer organization

I am consistently amazed by how many people want to see something “different,” yet aren’t willing to step in and make the change in their organization.

It’s easy to be a Monday morning quarterback, commenting on what others should be doing and what the organization as a whole should be focusing on. When the time comes for someone to step up and implement those changes, however, you often hear crickets.

Those who do step in are often rewarded in many ways beyond what they initially thought. Here are 5 key actions to change organizations to be more productive for others and yourself.

1. Be Selfish: As a member of an organization, consider what you personally need out of this commitment in order to justify the expense. Consider what actions will give you energy as opposed to draining your energy. If you get involved but are put in charge of something you don’t believe in, I’ll guarantee you won’t execute at a high level. If what you do gives you energy, then you will find the experience uplifting instead of draining. This uplifting experience is better for the organization because you both get more out of your involvement.
2. Make Decisions: Don’t wait around for the perfect time or perfect consensus. Make decisions and move the organization forward. Even if it is the wrong decision, you will find that you learn as a team and are able to then adapt and apply those lessons to future endeavors.
3. Listen Cautiously: I know we are always taught to listen to everyone’s opinions, but opinions without actions are virtually pointless. Many people think things should be a certain way until they are put in charge and see how difficult it is to implement those opinions. If people have opinions and want change, empower them to make that change. If they aren’t willing to be a part of the solution, move on. Implement the strategies of those who are willing to help you progress the organization forward.
4. Be Prepared: Preparation for meetings will ensure that all points get covered. While many of us are good at thinking on our feet, we can’t accomplish our full agenda without taking proper time before meetings to write down what we want to accomplish and discuss. Preparation is 70% of the battle. You will find that when you put a little time into prep work, the outcomes are much greater.
5. Call People out: If people say they are going to do something, but then don’t, call them out in front of the group and ask why. Accountability is a huge issue. Imagine if everyone is rowing a ship and those on one side simply stop rowing. What happens? They go in circles. Don’t let your organization spin out of control because people aren’t being held accountable.

As the leader or member of an organization you have the ability to make amazing changes that can propel the organization forward and drive a ton of value for you and your members. Organizations that drive value, are healthy and have a positive future. Those that are mired in echo chambers of people who talk but don’t act will eventually die off.

You need energy to keep things alive, and if the organization isn’t giving energy it is slowly dying.

-Brandon