Driving on a highway recently, I saw this sign:
As I continued to speed down the roadway, I wondered what I was supposed to do in response to this new information that I, apparently, was entering a “blasting zone.”
What did that mean for me? Was I in danger?
Should I get off at the next exit? Slow down? Move over into another lane? No one else seemed to be changing their driving habits or patterns.
So, just like all of the vehicles around me, I just kept moving along. And, within about 5 seconds, forgot all about being in an apparent “blasting zone.”
It struck me later that we do this with our Board members all the time. We provide them with all kinds and types of information. Data. Stories. Budgets. Progress reports. Updates. Accreditation results. Projections. Etc.
And just like the “Blasting Zone Ahead” sign, we don’t do nearly as well communicating with our Board members what they can (or should) do in response – to help, to decide, to promote, to attend, to give, to lead, or to follow.
On some level, I suppose it is helpful to be educated that I’m traveling through a blasting zone. But, if I’m not made aware of potential response options (or simply told what to do next), the helpfulness of sharing this information is greatly reduced.
Educating your Board is an important step.
But, if you aren’t helping them understand how they can (and should) respond, lead, and help, don’t be surprised if they continue to move along as if nothing has changed.
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**Learn With Me Opportunity**
On Thursday and Friday, June 16-17, I will be in Philadelphia, PA, with my colleague Nancy Gray, former president of Hollins University. Together, we will be facilitating a rich discussion and workshop on how presidents and vice presidents can Raise More Money Together. While this professional development opportunity is designed for teams of presidents and vice presidents to attend together, it can also be of great benefit for a president or vice president to attend solo. If you believe your president – vice president fundraising relationship could be even more effective, this will be well worth your time. Join us and let’s learn together!
