Ron Worth (CEO of SMPS) spoke about leadership practices at a past SDA national convention. His focus was on what it takes to become a catalyst within your company and within your membership in professional organizations. Here are a few noteworthy excerpts from his presentation.
MONTHLY MANAGEMENT REPORTS (APOO)
Managers want reports, and they don’t want to read a report written in a book-novel format. You need to become comfortable in writing reports. Ron suggests the APOO format as a way of getting started:
• List accomplishments
• Discuss problems
• Share opportunities
• Provide outlook (e.g., next 60 days)
ADAPT
Adaptability is one of the strongest strengths you should achieve. You need to learn how to become effective and efficient at practice management. You need to keep up with the latest technology. You need to be able to anticipate tasks.
MARKETING DOMAINS
Marketing Research
You become the knowledge point. Learn how to research, especially using the Internet.
Marketing Plan
As a member of an organization, consider it your job to promote the organization. Talk about your organization to colleagues you’ve met in your industry. You have ideas for increasing membership growth. You have comments and suggestions for chapter and/or national activities. You know what education you require to increase your skill and knowledge level. You need to share your ideas, comments, and suggestions with your organization’s decision-makers.
Client and Business Development
Publish, teach and mentor.
Promotional Activity
With Internet and online tools, consider using e-newsletters and e-grams. Remove the date from advertising materials; by not adding a date, the material retains a longer shelf-life.
As a member of a professional organization, you’re a leader whether you’re on the board of directors or not. You are representing your organization. You are helping establish the branding of your organization. Although Ron suggested the board of directors “write handwritten notes,” it’s also good practice for the general membership. Even though e-mail is easier and faster to send, don’t underestimate the powerful message a handwritten note can provide.
THIRTEEN KEYS TO LEADERSHIP SUCCESS
- Determine your legacy
- Train your successor
- Be “on” whenever you’re in front of others
- Set an example by what you do
- Help others reach their goals
- Be the lead cheerleader/champion
- Watch out for cliques
- Communicate
- Make champions out of influences
- Live up to your word
- Insist on unity
- Learn to work with all kinds of people
- Be sure to make time for yourself
