Applications for Committee Participation

A strong volunteer structure ensures a successful chamber!

It has been said before our volunteers need to be the leaders in the community.

But in addition to that, they need to commit to your organization if they are to participate on a committee or your board.

At the very least, the following needs to be considered when selecting potential new committee members:

  • Intellectually committed;
  • Willing to participate (mandatory attendance on key meetings);
  • A leader in the community; and
  • Financial commitment.

If your volunteers don’t commit to the organization, why would your members? Remember, we are membership organizations.

Your members need to lead!

For an example on how one association handles the application process for committee participation go HERE.

Controversial Issues – Take a Stand!

It’s not supposed to be easy all the time.
 
A controversial issue for one chamber may not be controversial for another.

What topics in your community would be a “hot issue” or “controversial issue?”

The following items are just a couple of examples of what might be a hot topic in your community.

What would you add to the list?
 
  • Endorsing a candidate for public office;
  • Support/oppose a specific piece of legislation; or
  • Supporting a new building project
 
I, like many others, suggest you should address it head on. Do your research, bring it before the board and publically tell your members why you’re going to take that position.
 
It’s been said here before, be transparent. As long as you’ve done your due diligence and the board has signed off, don’t back down. Publically support or oppose the action that your board took a stand on.
 
At the end of the day, your chamber will gain respect and many would suggest more members.
 
I remember a chamber executive telling me many years ago, “if you’re getting shot at, you know you’re over the target.”
 
Something to think about!