Mentoring an In-coming Chapter President

It’s the time of year that chapters are selecting new leaders for the next biennium.  Unfortunately, this task is harder and harder.  Members are reluctant to step into the roles of chapter officers, especially that of president. 

What if the in-coming president is assured of assistance in the form of a mentor?  With a mentor to provide guidance, reluctance may take a back seat. 

The logical mentor may be the immediate past chapter president, but that does not always have to be the case.  Any of the past chapter presidents can fill that role.  Past chapter presidents have experience and insights necessary to share with the new president. 

With prior planning, the chapter can ensure that this transition is smooth and less stressful.  An arrangement can already be in place that guarantees mentorship of a new chapter president.  Many resources are available for chapter presidents, and those can be daunting at first glance.  A mentor can take the time to study those with an in-coming chapter president and offer advice.  Among those resources are the International Constitution and International Standing Rules, The Handbook of The DKG Society International, and a Leadership Calendar, all of which are found on the DKG website.  Additionally, chapter rules need to be examined. 

The relationship between the mentor and in-coming chapter president needs to be on-going and intentional.  For success to occur, time needs to be allocated and devoted to the needs identified through each meeting.  These meetings can occur in a variety of settings and manners.  Face-to-face, while often the most desired, can also occur via a virtual platform such as Zoom, Facetime or Google Meet.  Scheduled check-ins could include emails, texts, or phone calls.  The chapter president should also feel comfortable contacting her mentor at any time with questions. 

The importance of working as a team is fostered with the mentor and in-coming chapter president relationship.  The in-coming leadership team can also be included in some of the beginning meetings that set the stage for the new biennium.  

As a mentor, past chapter presidents provide the following skills to an in-coming chapter president and her leadership team. 

-          Exhibit characteristics of a positive role model.

-          Provide guidance as well as constructive feedback.

-          Build mutual respect and trust.

-          Share skills, knowledge, and expertise.

-          Demonstrate commitment.

In turn, the in-coming leadership team can develop and expand their leadership skills for their own benefit and that of their chapter. 

Now is the time to look at your chapter and what is in place to nurture and support your in-coming chapter leaders, and most especially your chapter president.  If you do not have a mentor program in place, consider developing a plan now.  This may be the answer to the reluctance of members to take on leadership roles. 

Soon we will be offering congratulations to our new chapter officers.  Success is only a plan away.