The Challenge of Being Presidential How Do I Want Members to See Me? or How Do I Want Members to See Me? 2019-2020 National President Peggy Haake

The Successful President… Knows how to run a proper meeting: First and Foremost: you and the secretary are prepared with agenda items (old and new business) Your cool, calm and collected appearance sets the tone for the meeting. Demonstrate proper use of the gavel (when/how to wrap) Know how to move a motion across the floor. Handle discussion effectively; respect their passion.

The Successful President… Knows and respects the Bylaws. Arrives EARLY (not “just in time). Sets up the Podium area – ensuring all pre-meeting details are completed. Greets members as they arrive.

The Successful President… Makes sure members feel welcome and comfortable. Gives the room a once-over, ensuring the Conductor/ Conductress has everything set up before you start. Starts on time! This shows members you respect them and value their time.

The Successful President… Gets their attention! Before you or your designated person officially opens the meeting, welcome members with enthusiasm. Make a brief announcement about someone's birthday, say that you’re glad to see them in attendance after hardship, etc. It shows your sincere appreciation of them as members. Keeps the meeting on track and facilitates discussion so everyone who wishes to be heard is accommodated. Knows who can speak at a Council Meeting. Treats every member with the respect they deserve. Be courteous, empathetic and professional, never condescend.

The Successful President… Conducts themselves in a Professional manner. Is careful what they say (it will likely be repeated). Dresses better than what is expected/required. Shows the Spirit of Aloha! Does their best to grow the Organization. Teaches what they know and shares what they have learned. Ensures the smooth, successful operation of the year by recommending a meeting between Presidents and Chiefs of Staffs.

The Successful President… Passes a strong Department to their successors. Knows what is required by National and responds in a timely manner. Use your email and check it often. Expense Vouchers should be completed in a timely manner for both Department and National. READ what is sent to you!! Questions? Call or Email HQ (respect time zone/work hours).

Leadership…It’s Important! Lead by example! Always conduct yourself in a manner befitting a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. Ensure that the Bylaws are respected but be flexible in areas where new ideas or methods can be accommodated and encouraged. Strong leaders don't feel threatened by the success of others. Be sure to give credit where credit is due! Compliment others often and thank them regularly.

Leadership…It’s Important! Delegate – This is a win/win proposition. You will relieve yourself of some workload and empower others to grow and share the accomplishment. Once you have delegated authority, step back and restrict your involvement to sincere interest in the project and monitoring progress. Offer guidance only when asked or when absolutely necessary to the success of the project. Always take the positive approach to problem solving or conflict resolution. Make all members feel accepted, valued and appreciated.

Leadership…It’s Important! Be approachable and patient. It is important to listen to all ideas before making decisions, and listen to both/all sides of a disagreement before stepping in to help settle it. No one is in charge of volunteers. We work together as a team and appreciate the efforts of all participants.

Leadership…It’s Important! Effective Communication: Make information the key to your Department's success… be sure that all Officers and Program Chairmen have the information to do their jobs well. Then pass it on to Auxiliaries. Clarity is vital! Be certain that your instructions are clear and concise to prevent misunderstandings. Keep members informed of programs and/or projects through your Department General Orders, Communication or Newsletter. When something goes wrong, you need to be strong and take responsibility. Never criticize others in public.

Be a President Who Motivates when you lead with the Spirit of Aloha! When YOU remain POSITIVE and MOTIVATED, others will be positive and motivated too. Remember, you’re a role model, teacher and friend. And YOU can be a great leader… when you lead with the Spirit of Aloha!

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.“ - John Quincy Adams