If you have listened to the news lately, you have heard a lot of predictions.
We hear predictions from rulings of the Supreme Court, on the future of Twitter, on gas prices, on inflation, on unemployment, on the economy, the stock market, interest rates, and the housing market, and daily we listen to predictions with the weather. All of these predictions may, or may not, come true.
I want to briefly share with you ten predictions for the future of your chamber/association that are true! (in no particular order)
I predict, if you….
- Ask your members/investors how you can help, they will answer!
Meet your members’ needs by asking for and listening to their wants. You might not be able to achieve everything they ask for, but you can gain a better understanding of how to build your capacity by engaging your members by seeking their input.
- Invest in your Board, they will become more engaged.
Your volunteers need to understand governance. Investing in your Board can prevent micro/macro management headaches by clearly defining each role. Implement a process that explains and openly discusses Board expectations and conduct a Board orientation.
- Launch a new program or event, it will generate a buzz!
As the year changes, start something new! But, be deliberate with your new program/event and ensure it’s meeting a need, addressing a want, and creating a solution.
- Plan to build your financial reserves, it will pay off in the future!
There’s no time like the present to begin building your ‘rainy day fund.’ Gradually include a line item for reserves in your budget. You never know when you will need surplus funds to cover something unexpected. A global pandemic highlighted why reserves are essential.
- Invest in your own professional development, you will see an immediate return on investment!
There’s no better place to start your journey than with the IOM program. Complete Institute yourself and send your staff. Then, pursue your CCE/CAE. Investing in you and your team is key for better job performance.
- Are intentional with work/life balance, you can help avoid burnout!
Chamber/association management is not easy! Maintaining time for you, your needs, your family, etc. will help your mental health. A healthy you is critical for the overall health of the organization. You matter!
- Join your state chamber/association group & ACCE/ACAE, you will gain a great network!
Join a network of your peers. This is a great opportunity to learn from others that see the same challenges and things you face daily. Learn best practices that you can implement on your own scale that are tailored for your own needs.
- Engage a new population for growth, your voice will be stronger!
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords. Embracing the ideas of diverse populations helps create a dynamic organization that truly serves everyone. Deliberate goals of inclusion ensure a stronger voice.
- Take your seat at the table, you will belong!
Make sure your actions establish your organization as vital, relevant, essential, and claim your position. Your organization should be the first one everyone thinks of to solve a problem, tackle an issue, convene stakeholders, and to make a difference.
- Pay it forward, you will share the reward!
Someone in this business can benefit from your experience. Be willing to share your successes and your failures. Leave your own mark!
While I can’t predict what’s next, here’s to a bright future and much success!
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