Its a torch, not a hot potato

1
Its a torch, not a hot potato!

• Preparing for Leadership Transitions
• Ferguson Discovery Series
• Leadership Crash Course
• Spring 2009

2
Its something we dont often think about

• Consider Obama his transition team they spent
  months doing research, hiring, and planning

3
Why are leadership transitions so important?

• Preserving an organizations records (ex
  membership rosters, financial transactions)
• Carrying on traditions group identity (ex
  rituals, awards)
• Learning from past successes/mistakes (ex
  events)
• Maintaining support/loyalty of those who move on

4
So, what does it take to orchestrate a smooth
transition for the benefit of your group?
5
Planning for a smooth transition BUDGET

• Keep/pass on important documents (invoices,
  receipts, etc.)
• Destroy personal info like CWIDs, account numbers
  used for reimbursement, SSNs
• Maintain a detailed list of the groups income
  expenditures (as detailed as possible)
• Share vendor fundraising information (i.e.,
  t-shirts, FAC, etc.)

6
Planning for a smooth transition GROUP
PROCEDURES

• Pass on a copy of the groups constitution
  (update as needed)
• Share guidelines for updating group registration
• Share meeting minutes/agendas, attendance records
• Share written position descriptions or
  expectations for officers, committee chairs, and
  members
• Tips for working with your advisor

7
Planning for a smooth transition GROUP
ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Share what were the groups goals for the year?
  Were they met? How do you know? (Share copies
  of surveys, evaluations, debriefs)
• List the groups accomplishments for the year,
  large and small (events, awards/honors, service
  projects, collaborations/sponsorships, etc.)
• Include copies of event flyers, press releases,
  photos, etc.

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Ideal

• Set up a time to sit down with the new leadership
  and discuss each of the aforementioned materials
  and train as needed
• If this is not possible, share electronic and/or
  hard copies with detailed notes
• Give your contact information in case the new
  leaders have questions or a need for additional
  information

9
More helpful hints

• Inspire confidence in the new leaders (among
  members)
• If you have input in their selection, think in
  terms of what is best for the organization
• Empower the new leaders by sharing knowledge,
  information, and resources
• Think about whats best for the organization and
  its sustained success (vs. your personal
  preferences or pride)

10
Bottom line

• You are replaceable! Dont make it more
  difficult for those who come behind you by
  leaving too many loose ends.

11
Exercise

• Are you incoming or outgoing?
• What is the current condition of your
  organization? (struggles, decisions being
  considered, etc.)
• Make a list of questions and/or concerns that
  need to be resolved or addressed as part of the
  transition to new leadership.
• Now, make a list of specific items you can
  request or share to do your part.

12
Questions?

• For more info
• Corrie Harris
• Director of Student Involvement
• charris_at_sa.ua.edu
• 355 Ferguson
• 348-6114