We are approaching the start of the new volunteer year. Many of us are looking forward to the possibility of returning to our pre-COVID “normal” worlds, including regular board and education meetings, and other chapter business. Before we look at our year head, we want to be sure we are laying the foundation for a great year. This includes ensuring our new and continuing volunteers are set up to succeed in their roles. This can be done in various ways.
- Board Orientation — Each year should start with a board orientation. This should include chapter leaders continuing their terms, new chapter leaders, as well as any immediate past chapter leaders. This is an opportunity to review governing documents and role responsibilities, ask questions, and review strategic plans and goals. A board orientation checklist is available in Volunteer Resources in ANFPConnect.
- Online Course(s) — Take some time to review the online chapter leadership courses, available in the Marketplace. They include courses like Newsletter Editor - Roles & Responsibilities, Meeting Planning 101, and Volunteer and Member Recruitment and Retention. Also be sure to check out the chapters section in ANFPtv with archived webinars and Chapter Chats with relevant leadership topics.
- Meet One-on-One — Take time to meet one-on-one with each other, especially with new board members. This is a great opportunity for former board members to pass on best practices as well as other advice. You could also use this opportunity for hands-on training and shadowing.
- Team Building — Consider having a team building activity as part of your orientation. This is a great way to break the ice and build trust among your board members. It can be something as quick and simple as Two Truths & a Lie or a more involved activity such as a scavenger hunt (virtual or in-person).
- Transfer of Records — At some point, you may need to hand off chapter records or documents. This is also an opportunity for veteran chapter leaders to train new chapter leaders. Walk them through important documents, remind them of important dates, and let them know where they can find volunteer tools and resources.
- Talk to Other Chapter Leaders — With many chapter leaders throughout the country, take advantage of their knowledge and experience. Reach out to those that are in the same or similar roles on their board and share best practices, ideas, or just take some time to get to know other chapter leaders.