When the outcome is on you, you may feel pulled in a thousand directions dealing with all the details, disruptions, headaches and nightmares of your next campus event. Dealing with the details is necessary, but we can do without the disruptions, headaches and nightmares. Let’s go for ‘teamwork,’ ‘smooth sailing,’ and ‘a good time was had by all’ with these six ‘big picture’ leadership tips.

1. Include others in the planning – Have planning meetings early in the process so you and your team can brainstorm all the details. Involving others gives them a sense of ownership, making it more likely for them to volunteer and follow through.
    
2. Tap all of your resources – The professional speaker you hired might be your best resource. Ask the speaker what prewritten promotional or marketing materials they may have. The speaker’s just as interested in making your event a success as you are!
    
3. Delegate the details – A true leader knows how to delegate and you can’t be expected to do it all. To keep your eye on the bigger picture, delegate smaller details to your team members and volunteers according to their job duties.
    
4. Get it done early – Create a master checklist of what needs to be done, who is assigned to get it done and when. Allow enough time to address everything, all of the details and the possible last minute emergencies. It’s easier to be proactive than reactive.
    
5. Follow Up, follow up, follow up – This is a really big part of your job as a leader. Even though you may have delegated minor tasks, the buck still stops with you. Have a last minute meeting a few days in advance of the event to make sure everything’s on schedule. You’ll still have time to fix those few things that will inevitably get screwed up.
    
6. Say “Thank You” – AHEM… Say “Thank You!” – Still one of the two magic words if you ask me. (Know what the other one is?) A thankful and gracious leader is a great leader. Let your team know you couldn’t have done it without them. They’ll appreciate it and might just volunteer again next time!

So how have they worked for you?

PEACE.
Rick – “I get by with a little help from my friends.”

Please give it some consideration if any of these topic areas fit your future student activities planning.

• Academic Enrichment & Study Skills
• Career and Job Fair Programs
• Diversity, Black History, Women
• Finances and Money Matters 
• Graduation & Commencement
• Orientation & First Year Experience
• Sexual Assault Awareness Programs
• Student Leadership Programs
• Professional Development Courses for Educators