Taking breaks from school and chapter are great to rejuvenate before taking on new roles and implementing new ideas. I always felt like my winter break was long overdue, but by the end of it I couldn't wait to get back to school and back to my chapter. It is always nice to be able to use that time to think over what you would like to accomplish over the next year and how to you want to better your chapter.
Given that you are thinking about it, you can be assured that other members of your chapter are thinking about it as well. Whether they are new officers, outgoing officers, or exceptional members they probably thought of how to improve your chapter while you were all away on break. The beginning of the new term for officers and the new year is a great time to set the direction for your chapter for the year. It would be insane to think that you can sit by and let the same plan run its course year after year without editing it. This fresh start is the perfect time to get all on the same page and establish goals and deadlines!
EVALUATE
First things first, everyone agree that you are not trying to hurt anyone's feelings. Instead, you are all there for the good of the chapter. Now, determine what has worked in the past and what hasn't. Be honest about the fact that one way of doing something in the past just isn't working anymore. Write down every. little. thing. about what you like and what you don't like. Even if it is something as simple as the brand of t-shirts you order - write it down! It is so important to have an open and honest conversation because here you can determine what you can keep and what you don't like about your chapter.
"WHAT IS OUR MAIN GOAL?"
The most important thing you all can ask yourselves is, What is our main goal? This is important for two reasons:
ONE - You all need to get on the same page now.
TWO - You all need to decide where the main focus of the chapter is going to go.
Your overall plan is going to look different if you are focusing on recruitment rather than focusing on improving your image on campus. Don't be afraid to really focus on what needs to be fixed even if others don't see it needs fixing. This is your opportunity to stand up and be a leader for your chapter.
REMEMBER THE FUN
At this point it can be easy to think about what needs to happen in a business frame of mind, however joining a sorority is all about having fun! It may take a little longer to come up with your actual plan, but keep your members' (and your) sanity in mind and make a fun plan rather than one that just meets the goals but is boring.
Also, just because another chapter is doing it, doesn't mean you have to do it. Do what works for your chapter.
PLAN
Now that you know what has worked and what doesn't work anymore, what your main focus is, and that you are keeping x number of other girls in mind you can start planning! Divide up your areas of focus however you want and do what is necessary for you to reach your goals.
Mission/Vision
Yes, our organizations all have their own mission and vision statement. You should absolutely take these into consideration when putting together your plan, but that doesn't mean you can't come up with your own as well. Both are statements that will hold you accountable to the goals you set. They are also both very easy to come back to when you need to be reminded of your commitment and goals.
Programs
Since you have already discussed what has and hasn't worked in the past, I assume some programs got mentioned. Fill in the holes with fresh ideas that meet the goals you have set. This is the time to really look at setting up some community service opportunities if that is an area your chapter is lagging in. If you're tired of the same old sisterhood events, come up with something else! Again, this is your year to be a leader for your chapter.
Money
Maybe one of your goals is to really kick up your marketing on campus this year or to have a really great formal - guess what you need? Money! Plan now at the beginning of the year to raise dues by $5 or $10/month for each member. By the time these events roll around, you won't be scrounging for extra money.
Also, make a goal to sponsor a scholarship for one of your Sisters. It's never a bad idea and you never know when they could use it. A couple of years ago one of my Sisters had a bizarre medical condition come up. Sisterhood is all about being able to help each other out when we really need it and this is a great way to have that resource available.
Community Relationships
As easy as it is to focus only on your chapter, you are not the only one in your community. Make plans now to pair up with fraternities and sororities for different events. If you have the same philanthropy as another chapter plan an event now. If you know you haven't had the best relationship with a sorority go ahead and schedule a picnic or to participate in their annual event.
Inter/National Resources
Your Inter/National organization has so many resources available to help you better your chapter. Get to know the resources and then make time to utilize them throughout the year. I know everyone dreads the annual consultant visit, but they are there to help you! Pump up the chapter for the visit a couple of weeks in advance and challenge them to focus on becoming better Sisters. There is always something new for you to learn about your position, chapter, or organization.
NOW WHAT?
Share your plan with your chapter however you want - your chapter's portal, a Google doc., a handout in chapter, etc. You have a clear plan and now all you have to do is follow through. A lot of times our big downfall is feeling like we have to keep it a secret, but by putting it out there to everyone, we are asking them to hold us accountable as their officers. By writing everything down, you will have a clear idea of what you would like to accomplish in 2014!
What goals do you have for your chapter in 2014?
Image via Chicago Prepster
No comments:
Post a Comment