"USEFUL IDEAS FOR A GOOD LEADER"

USEFUL IDEAS FOR A GOOD LEADER

1.       APPEARANCES ARE IMPORTANT

The Worthy Matron creates a better impression for candidates when papers, books, etc. are not on the pedestal during initiatory work.  Look efficient and organized.  Follow all the dress suggestions.

2.       FIT CANDIDATES INTO THE CHAPTER PROGRAM

Each new member should be interviewed for his or her abilities, expectations and desires.  Think in terms of the individual’s needs, wants, desires, expectations and abilities—not just the “convenience” of the Chapter.  Keep tabs on the new members.  Be sure they develop the habit of attending meetings.  As soon as a new member misses her first meeting, call—never make her feel pressured—and let her know you missed her and what was missed!  When she appears at her next meeting, do or say something that reinforces your assurances.  Insincerity kills attendance—quickly.

3.       WHAT INTERESTS A MEMBER?

Attendance is a prime concern, and the best way to find out why a member does not attend is to ask him.  Phrasing the question is important.  Try, “What can we do to improve our Chapter and make meetings interesting?”  When you get answers, give them serious consideration—write them down!

4.       APPOINTMENTS

An appointment by the Worthy Matron serves at her pleasure.  If the appointee fails to fulfill the duties which were accepted, the Worthy Matron has the privilege of replacing him.  Consideration and caution should be used however, and it is suggested that the Worthy Matron consult with any Officer or committee member who is not performing, as there may be valid reasons unknown to her.  Worthy Matrons are also urged to spell out the duties of the Officers and committees and be sure they are understood before appointments are made.

5.       ACCURATE MAILING LIST IS ESSENTIAL

Each elected Officer should have an up-to-date mailing list, including E-mail addresses.  Without this valuable tool the ability to contact members is soon lost.

6.       CHAPTER GOALS

Each Worthy Matron-elect should set a definite goal for her term, something that’s tangible, so that at the end of the term she can look back and have the satisfaction of reaching her goal.  The Chapter will be better because of it.  Goals should be high enough to demand exertion, yet within reach with effort.  Goals can be membership, visitations, activities, attendance, competition with other Chapters, financial, etc.  Make the goals specific, not general.

7.       INVOLVE THE MEMBERS

To keep your members active, make them a part of your program.  Involve them.  Give them a reason to be at the meeting, not just for support, but also for participation on committees and in activities.  Treat each one as an individual and put them in your program.

8.       IDENTIFY THE MEMBERS

Get better acquainted with each other and particularly with new members.  Have a name badge ready to present to the members when they arrive for any work project, and you’ll find that they will feel a part of the Chapter quicker and the other members will get to know them better.

9.       CHAPTER HAS NO SIDELINES

There should be no “sidelines” in a Chapter meeting; everyone is in the action and a part of the meeting.  Members sit “among the members” or “in the meeting,” not on the sidelines.