What’s CO-ing On?
A Time of Opportunity We are living and working in a time of crisis. How can we not only survive, but thrive? If we look at this time as an opportunity, it allows freedom to explore, innovate, re-focus, and provide solutions. It may sound crazy but hear us out. After connecting with over 160 association members, participating in several local and national mastermind groups, hours of virtual meetings, articles, podcasts and following industry leaders, we have come to the conclusion that this time is indeed an opportunity to evaluate ‘what was’ and create new ways to Move Professionals Forward. We are committed to the association community not only surviving but thriving. Here are a few notable findings that have inspired us to embrace this opportunity. Explore + Innovate Embrace the terms test, pilot, create and try. If this crisis has taught us anything, it’s to expect the unexpected. We’ve been thrust into a new world of operating, educating and serving. Take this time to create a future that incorporates learning from the past and brings new innovations to meet the needs of your industry. Purposeful abandonment allows organizations to let go now (in the short-term) and forever. This is the green light you’ve been waiting for to change, update or let go. What do you want to be true when this season of uncertainty is over? Use this to guide your strategy. What can you influence? What is outside your influence? Where can you seek new partnerships or collaborations? Ask questions. Brainstorm new possibilities, new ways to meet member needs and permission to test without fear of failure. Welcome this time of exploration and accelerated innovation!
perfect behind the scenes. They don’t know if you went with Plan B. They don’t see the imperfections. They have empathy. They know you are doing your best and would rather have a solution that is roughly right than wait for the perfect one. Don’t Forget About You! One of the most important things we have learned during this time is self-care. You must first take care of yourself so you can properly take care of your team and members. Self-care ensures a clear mind. Lean into your team. Ask for help. Create balance, be flexible and know you don’t have to have all the answers. Lead with empathy. Give grace. This time has proven to be difficult on everyone. Leaders, staff, family and friends. We are in this together and can only be our best when we take care of ourselves. We thank Mary Byers, CAE for this daily reminder and welcome you to say it with us… “We will figure it out!”
Co-Directors, Associations North
Re-Focus + Provide Solutions Adapt, learn and unlearn has become the new workplace currency. How can you re-skill your arsenal of tools and talent to thrive during this crisis and post pandemic? Now is the time to look for ways to add value as an employee to your team and organization. Embrace the term roughly right. New programs do not need to be polished and perfected to launch. Time is of the essence. Members are looking for solutions to their challenges right now. Your members don’t know if something isn’t quite
Meeting Planner s Symposium att endee, Stacey Ca recipient surprised ris was the lucky with Kat Perkins co ncert at her hous e!
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