According to a this Fast Company article, one of the most powerful ways to develop leadership skills is through volunteer service.
The article highlights that while CEOs and staffs of non-profits build and run programs and services, boards of directors and involved volunteers provide strategic and financial leadership to ensure vitality, integrity, and fulfillment of each organization's mission. The volunteer leaders are the pulse of the organization.
Secrets to making the most of your volunteer experience:
- Choose a committee/cause that's meaningful to you. Determine how you can be useful — from helping with scholarships to improving membership growth, pick what interests you the most.
- Be open to opportunities and be willing to help. Before you know it, you could be chairing a committee and perhaps serving as a board officer.
- Be alert to potential mentors — on the board where you serve and among your friends and colleagues. Talk with other people who serve on boards to share experiences, lessons, and advice.
- Always remember the mission. It must be at the forefront of your mind as you participate in discussions and make decisions.
- Be generous with your time and your contributions.
- Help to recruit and mentor the next wave of volunteers to assist in developing them as leaders.
How has your volunteer experience propelled your leadership skills? Or has it? Let us know!
For the complete Fast Company article, please click here.
*Kim Karagosian is the Senior Director of MarCom at AH. In this role, Kim is responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies and discovering new areas of growth for AH's clients. She brings over 10 years of experience in sales and marketing with an extreme passion for creative marketing, social media, conference marketing and research and analysis.
