With the 2008 IABC Southern Region Conference over, the entire volunteer team is taking a breath. It was, by all accounts, a huge success. Great feedback on the vast majority of speakers, great feedback on the conference experience. Attendees seemed to enjoy being there and left with considerable value.
During the opening reception Sunday night I chatted at length with a client who was also speaking at the conference. Patty Crowley is brilliant and has great insight – she is also a true pleasure to work with because her intellect keeps me on my toes.
She asked me “what are you most proud of in all of this,” waving her arms about the room. I had to pause. Throughout I pressed the team on keeping the budget down, meeting deadlines and paying attention to the smallest details. They achieved beyond my wildest dreams on each of these. But, these are not what I am most proud of.
I am proud of the way individuals on the team stepped up, took responsibility and delivered. As a consultant without a huge staff, I no longer lead a large team as I did in the corporate world. My leadership opportunities come in different packages now. So, I am most proud to have led a team of professionals who stepped up, took charge and produced a truly valuable and successful event.
For independents or members of very small firms this is an important way to stay connected and involved. It reduces the sense of isolation I know many of these folks feel. It also helps you keep your leadership and decision-making skills sharp – an important step when serving clients.
Next time you feel isolated or miss leading a team in your old corporate role, consider stepping up to a volunteer leadership opportunity. It’s a great way to feel energized and on top of your game!
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