It is easy to lose one’s way, and oftentimes difficult to find one’s way back. This was a major theme of organizational life I learned in graduate school. For one of my research projects I elected to evaluate the issues of successful turnarounds. Among the survey and research data, I had the opportunity to discuss the keys to success with some of the CEOs. These had to do with what some would call the nuts and bolts.
In nearly every case, turnarounds were built on an organization defining a single point of focus on what it could do best. This became the only priority and resulted in shedding years of accumulated products, services, structures, and yes, some current employees and customers. The idea was elegant in its simplicity – define what you can do best and work to do that one thing better than anyone else. Such shifts caused everyone in the process to step back – to learn or relearn the nuts and bolts of what this effort would require.
Sertoma and each of its clubs can learn from these examples and step back to evaluate if we have a clear focus/purpose, if we are committed to being the best in our efforts, and if we are prepared with the skills to manage the nuts and bolts of our efforts. This is the major focus of what the Sertoma board and staff are doing this year in preparation for the start of a 2nd Century of Sertoma Service. It is not easy, it can be tedious, and it will generate every range of emotion possible. But without it there is no future.
At headquarters we see the importance of this issue of nuts and bolts every day. We help Club Officers that do not understand how a club operates as a not-for-profit, or a tax exempt charity. This results in problems with the IRS, the State, and staying in good standing. We see Clubs that are suddenly torn apart when members do not have a strong sense of purpose or direction.
As one CEO shared, the biggest issue his organization faced was what was “known and believed.” The belief that you already know the answer prevents any hope of finding the best solution. We need to all step back and learn the nuts and bolts of being a service club in this century. How do we create a shared purpose and mission? How do we operate the business of community organization? How do we develop leaders and engage people to support our efforts?
The good news is you don’t have to do this alone. Sertoma is here with resources and support for every club. But it means nothing without your commitment. It only takes one leader to start a turnaround. Demand (or be) an active liaison for your club. Make an investment to get leadership training. Be a leader who is more interested in what you can learn and ask, than in what you believe and know.
Steven Murphy
Executive Director
Sertoma
