April 2008 - Leadership: Guiding Volunteer Organizations to Success
posted by Larry J SmithWe have a great opportunity for members to cultivate personal leadership qualities and serve the needs of our profession for years ahead by submitting your application for a volunteer leadership position. You’ll have a chance to meet new colleagues and to continue your education without attending a formal classroom or hearing another lecture. You will develop professionally with hands on experience in a volunteer organization.
Imagine a dream position of unlimited upward mobility, flexible work hours, travel and networking opportunities. “Help make our community, and our world, a better place” by getting involved. For many of us the question of “how to land this dream position” is a very perplexing issue.
If you belong to a volunteer organization I invite a review two features of every organization: The Master Calendar and The Officer Contacts. Each feature helps answer the question of who to contact for more information and when to plan on attending any event. No previous experience is required and there are no special skills or experience required. Volunteer leaders and members understand that not everyone wants to get involved in an officer or leadership position. Each organization does want to better understand your needs and would like to hear to what extent you want to participate or what you hope to gain from your membership.
For example, some members join to receive technical journals, magazines or a great price on life insurance. Others may just want to attend a few local meetings or participate on a committee. Asking “What’s In It For Me” is a great place to help guide our organization to success only if you tell someone or ask someone a question about getting what you hoped for when you joined your organization.
You can further your career in engineering or construction management by getting actively involved on technical committees, helping plan meetings, events or conferences. You can contribute by writing technical articles or by participation in organization activities.
Our profession faces new challenges with deteriorating infrastructure, natural and manmade disasters. New faces are recognized and needed. We are ready to mentor and give way to new leaders that will shape our tomorrow and lead the next generation of engineers and construction managers.