A decade ago I was brought on as an Executive Director for an organization that had never before had an Executive Director. Instead, this organization had operated for nearly 25 years by volunteers only, and I came in as the first ever “out-of-industry full-time hire.” Those first few years with the organization I spent a […]

Everyone who works with sponsorships is looking for ways to increase sponsorship sales, both in terms of selling more sponsorships and selling to more sponsors. But the process of achieving that goal can be frustrating. I recently had the opportunity to lead two classes – ‘Revving Your Revenue’ and ‘Sponsorship Solicitation’ – at the Midwest […]

For almost two decades, I worked for a local chamber of commerce and then a statewide association.  Recently, I transitioned back into the arena of higher education, specifically in a field known as “Outreach and Engagement.”  In brief, the purpose of many outreach and engagement missions at colleges/universities has been partnering with communities, businesses, schools, […]

When talking with a member for renewal or a prospect for new membership investment, how do you manage the common response “It’s not in the budget”? First, what does that really mean? Is it that there’s no money in the checkbook or in the working budget? Or is it a tactful way for someone to […]

Organizations wanting to avoid relationship mistakes that contribute to board member disengagement should make sure there is clarity on expectations. In my work to find answers to the question, “Why don’t board members do what they’re supposed to do?” a lack of agreement on roles and responsibilities has been identified as a significant contributor to […]