Guest blog post by Melahni Ake, Everyday Leaders

Communication is the key to our success in life. In every culture we must learn a language in order to achieve results. If you want to share a feeling, emotion or belief, you must find a way to engage your thoughts into words or actions to be understood. Even when we are infants, before we learn to talk, we are still communicating. Babies cry when they are hungry and a mother or care giver instantly knows the child needs attention just because that is the signal to the click to read more . . . . 

Guest blog post from Bob Harris, CAE​

Association policies are among the board’s governing documents. Policies are the wisdom of a prior board adopted and passed on to successive directors. Policies are your “friend,” communicating the best method for handling an issue.

For example, in a discussion about finances you might hear, “Should we have an audit this year? How did the last board handle it? Can it just be a compilation? Can a committee do it?”

If a prior board had adopted a policy, it would remove uncertainty. For instance, “The board will cause an audit or review to be undertaken by an independent financial professional at least every other year.”

Policies interpret bylaws. They should not be inserted in the bylaws. Bylaws amendments must be voted on by the membership. Policies can be adopted, amended, or repealed by a vote of the board.

Pandemic Policy Adaptation

Policy manuals were OK before the pandemic. The pandemic has exposed some faults in policies. With the help of Elizabeth Krile, CAE, executive director at AIA Columbus, we have suggested revisions.

Technology Rainchecks – Education has been transformed to on-line webinars. When the power goes out, the instructor loses connection, or someone hijacks the slide deck with graffiti, there should be a policy on cancellation and rescheduling. Now all webinars have a “raincheck policy” indicating what will occur if the webinar is shut down unexpectedly.

Video Cameras – Directors transitioned to remote, on-line meetings. They adjusted quickly but would not turn on their video cameras. For more effective meetings, the board set a policy that all directors should have and use their video. Without video cameras, the chair must do a roll call before any vote to ensure nobody has dropped off and a quorum exists.

Virtual Confidentiality – The association already had a policy on confidentiality of discussions and documents at board meetings. For remote meetings it is uncertain who might be listening to a director’s call. The policy was amended to cover remote meetings in unknown background environments.

Check Signing - “When the pandemic struck, checks were circulated by mail only to have someone intercept and forge a check,” said Elizabeth Krile at AIA Columbus. “When we met in person the officers could view and sign checks. Meeting virtually, the association is revising the check signing policy by exploring options such as online bill paying, ACH and credit card usage. The new policy will integrate transparency and financial safeguards.”

Remote Staffing – Staff have always worked at the office. The employee manual requires the physical office be open 9 to 5. This policy obviously does not work during a pandemic. The new policy will be a hybrid model, combining remote and office environments. For HR issues, be sure to consult with legal counsel.

Rules of Order – The bylaws prescribe “Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised 12th Edition.” With the pandemic board meetings are on-line, shorter, and more frequent. Meeting rules are respected but procedures and quorums have been relaxed.

Annual Meeting Requirement – The bylaws state the “annual meeting will be held no later than the last week of the fourth month of the year.” The meeting was cancelled because of the pandemic. A policy was adopted to allow the board to set the date.

Financial Audit – A full audit by an independent financial professional annually was prescribed in the bylaws. The board amended that to allow an audit, review of compilation to be conducted at least every 3 years. The policy describes the process for selecting an auditor and appointing an audit committee to interface with the CPA.

Financial Safeguards – The association has policies to separate the duties of opening mail and recording checks. With fewer staff at the office, this process will be updated. Other procedures need to be tweaked in the new work environments.

A typical association has between 25 and 50 board policies. More than that and the board may want to conduct a sunset review of the manual to bring it up to date.

Adapting to pandemic conditions may require a fresh look at existing policies. Thank you to Elizabeth Krile, CAE, for collaborating on pandemic driven policies.

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Note: Bob Harris, CAE, provides free governance tips and templates at www.nonprofitcenter.com. 

A guest blog post from Bob Harris, CAE

Associations have postponed or cancelled many events during these challenging times.
The lost sponsorships represent significant income as a percentage of events and the
overall budget.

Take steps to save the sponsor relationships and revenue.

• Re-Purpose – Find new opportunities for sponsors. As the association adjusts
so do the prospects for sponsorships. Offer new opportunities for remote
learning, virtual happy hours, industry town-hall meetings, etc.

• Roll-Over – Propose to roll-over the sponsorship to the same event next year.

• Re-Direct – Offer an alternative such as funding a charitable initiative or giving to
the association’s foundation. This may allow for an IRS charitable contribution.

• Refund – The least preferable option is a refund. Be mindful of business
conditions that have impacted sponsors.

Sponsor Opportunity Menu

A sponsorship menu is an inventory of all potential opportunities. Avoid “nickel and
diming” companies for money throughout the year. Encourage a company to include
sponsorship in their annual budget.

The menu is created by staff, usually during the summer, so companies can consider
their relationship with the association for the year ahead. An excellent model is
available at https://www.okrestaurants.com/partnership_opportunities.php.

Because of the cancellations and postponements, the menu should be updated now for
2020, and promote 2021 opportunities.

​Be sensitive to the changing needs of sponsors. For example, they may no longer have
funds for attendance at a conference but would appreciate increased exposure through
website banners and digital newsletter advertisements.
# # #

Note: Bob Harris, CAE, provides free governance tips and templates at
www.nonprofitcenter.com.

Guest Blog Post from Pat McGaughey, CPF, IOM - ChamberMentor.com and ActivatingPeople.com

War stories are starting to surface regarding secret board meetings happening without the Chamber Executive to discuss the closing of the Chamber of Commerce. If you believe there is even an inkling of something like this happening, it's time to take your job back.

The one and only person who should ever suggest the demise of a Chamber of Commerce must be the chief executive officer. If you as CEO don't think the organization can weather the storm, tell them, but if you think it's worth fighting for, then scream at them! This is your moment to take the organization back.

If you believe the organization can survive while some (or all) of your board members don't, why not turn the tables and ask them to resign? Your neck is on the line either way but if you believe in your heart you can lead the organization through the crisis, this is your moment.

Imagine getting on the phone and calling your list of business members and letting them know you are looking for leaders who aren't ready to quit. If anybody respects anyone, it's someone who's willing to put it all on the line. What a perfect time to take charge and, take your job back.

...Keep Leading.



Feedback is welcome, please reply to Pat@ChamberMentor.com 

Our first BONUS BLOG during the COVID-19 pandemic featured Perry Webb, president & CEO of the Springdale, Arkansas Chamber of Commerce admitting he really didn't know what to do as we began facing this crisis. So, he said, he went back to his original management model and chose to lead by prioritizing the issues that came up. It seems to be working.

As state governments begin relaxing the shelter at home orders and allowing certain businesses to re-open, the biggest priority is helping them do it right! The current priority is just that, and the Springdale Chamber is providing business with a PLAYBOOK FOR REOPENING that any business can go online (click here) so they can hit the ground running.

What can be more essential than that? If I'm a chamber executive and don't have one of these ready for my members, I'm going to stea.. uh, plager.. uh, research this document cover to cover and then get permission to copy it A.S.A.P!

This is what they pay us for. Kudos to Perry Webb, Bill Rogers, and the entire Springdale Chamber team for developing this Playbook for Reopening Your Business.

For another example, click here for what Don Long is offering the Lake Nona Chamber of Commerce members in Florida. I continue to recommend that everyone market these reopening links as "Another Essential Service" from your Chamber of Commerce.

Note: If you have a 'playbook' for reopening, please send me the link so I may share it.  Send to Pat@chambermentor.com.

Guest Blog from Bob Harris, CAE and Arturo Mariani, Life Coach

“You never want a serious crisis to go to waste. And what I mean by that is an opportunity to do things you think you could not do before,” said Chicago mayor Rahm Emmanuel.  

​Now there are hundreds of stories about chamber of commerce and personal improvement during the pandemic.   People are sharing ways they are adapting.   

Organizational Improvement
Many of the changes have positive, long term impact.  The adaptations are necessary or organic to survive, sustain, and thrive. 

For example, what used to be a day-long board meeting requiring hours of travel, is being replaced by a video conference.   Groups that shied away from on-line technology are rethinking the concept, realizing governance decisions can be made without the expenses of in-person meetings, meals, and travel. 

Regarding staffing after the government closed offices, employees and their bosses might have thought working remotely would not work.   At first it was awkward without guidelines and technology.  Now it is being embraced to save time, be effective and add quality of life without the hassles and costs of commuting.   Could it be the new normal?

At the Ventura County Coastal Association of REALTORS®, in California, CEO Wyndi Austin, CEO,  said that employees have been able to collaborate and complete projects that often were set aside by the urgencies of the day when they worked in the office. 

Associations and chambers of commerce serve as platforms for sharing concerns and learning how others are surviving.    Among others, Wyoming and Minnesota chamber executives are sharing by webinars frequently.    

The Colorado Society of Association Executives transformed its May membership luncheon to an online forum, including break out groups. The meeting was an hour of questions and encouragement.  For instance, while some associations were thinking of foregoing dues billing for a year, others explained how they had become indispensable to members and recruitment was up. 

Business associations and chambers in the Republic of Georgia amplified their advocacy by creating coalitions and sharing challenges through webinars.   

Organizations are improving by evaluating activities, transforming events, and creating new services for members.  Many of these will be lasting enhancements for chambers and associations. 

Personal Improvement
For individuals, do not let the crisis paralyze you. Be proactive instead of waiting for the situation to pass.  Many executives have kept blogs or written about how the pandemic has affected them.

Anastasia Baklan, a communications specialist at the Center for International Private Enterprise office in Ukraine, wrote about five ways the pandemic has changed life for the better.   Among them, development of women in business, increased use of technology for learning, and personal development. 

Some people suppress their thoughts instead sharing.  They might think they are alone, or nobody else will care. During social distancing and isolation, communication can be a real gift.  

Do not stifle sharing for fear of the reactions.   What you share can enrich others, offering solutions and help.  Knowing how others are coping can have a powerful positive impact.  

By sharing and writing we lighten our own fears.   All people need opportunities to express themselves. Many are fearful of taking the first step of sharing their experiences.

Receiving knowledge enhances personal understanding and self-confidence. The reader opens themself to new ideas.  

The pandemic may be a good time for making improvements.   Through sharing, blogging, writing, and reading, the possibilities expand.  You have the power to give others encouragement through this difficult time.

This moment teaches us about sharing and adapting. We do our best and realize what is beyond our reach, such as grief, economy, and pandemic.  

#   #   #

Note: Bob Harris, CAE, provides free governance tips and templates at www.nonprofitcenter.com.   Arturo Mariani is a speaker, author, athlete and life coach in Rome, Italy.  He can be contacted at arturo.mariani@hotmail.it. 

Guest article by Bob Harris, CAE 

The executive committee met in secret, without the full board and disinviting the executive director. “I suggest we layoff all the staff immediately except for our executive,” was the motion.

A few weeks earlier this board discussed a plan. Everybody agreed that with sizable reserves they would wait to assess the situation in June.

At a different association, the executive director offered a plan to furlough some staff. The board of directors met and offered, “No, the staff team is too valuable.” They decided to keep all staff, making best use of their savings reserve.

Roles and Responsibilities
The pandemic and economic recovery pose challenges for boards of directors. Good governance remains essential.

State corporate law authorizes the board to make governance decisions on behalf of stakeholders. Trustee roles are described in the governing documents

Most boards understand their responsibilities to approve budget, protect resources, set policies and positions, and to advance a mission and strategic plan.

The exuberant executive committee firing staff without consultation with the full board and their executive, is problematic. Even in a crisis there is no reason for poor governance.

If staffing issues arise, it is likely a personnel committee will be appointed to study and make recommendations to the board of directors, with the counsel of a HR specialist or a lawyer.

Missing in Action
Another effect of the pandemic is a board that is MIA or AWOL. Understandably some volunteer leaders are focused on the survival of their businesses or jobs

In their minds they may have abdicated responsibilities to the executive director. But to drive a nonprofit organization it requires balance: governance by a board and management by the staff.

If board members are MIA or preoccupied, consider relaxing some demands so they can continue to serve.

Meeting Frequency
Because of urgency, the board may need to convene more often. Plan shorter meetings to address critical issues. It may be easier to get 20 minutes for a meeting rather than an hour or two. In lengthy remote meetings it is easy to be distracted or drop off the call.

Meeting Agendas
Create board agendas that address only the vital issues. Delay the ordinary reports and updates for a later meeting.

Time Frames
Pause the multi-year strategic plan. For now, the board should focus on immediate initiatives. Return to the strategic plan as appropriate. 

Quorum
Bylaws indicate the minimum number of directors needed to conduct business. If circumstances find the board lacking a quorum, do not adjourn the meeting. Document all actions to present recommendations to the full body at the next meeting for affirmation.

Empower 
For maximum efficiency, the bylaws should empower the executive committee to address issues when the board cannot meet. Authorize the executive director with full management responsibilities.

Technology
Help the board adjust to technology and small screen meetings. The benefits of reading body language and casual discussions are missing, so urge everyone to turn on video screens; and mute microphones unless called upon.

Rules of Order
For groups that hire a parliamentarian and follow Roberts Rules of Order, they may have to be relaxed. Respect the chair and require motions be made and seconded, but do not let parliamentary procedure slow progress.

Agree on Vision
Set a short-term vision for buy-in by volunteers and staff. It may be, “To sustain the organization and deliver value to our members during the pandemic and economic recovery.” Create a written plan to support the vision.

Members First
Put members first. Volunteer leaders should be willing to listen, empathize, and categorize member challenges. Turn needs into opportunities and offer solutions. Members must see the organization as their indispensable partner.

Committees 
Pause standing committees prescribed in the bylaws if they do not have urgency, i.e. bylaws review. Appoint quick action teams, strategic project groups and strike forces to address the challenges.

Foundation
A subsidiary foundation may have reserves dedicated to education and scholarship. Approach the foundation board about expanding its mission to include pandemic and economic recovery. Consider using funds for the support of members with hardships.

Finances
Anticipate adjustments to revenue. Sponsors may not be available, events postponed and membership recruitment on the back burner. The treasurer and finance committee should prepare a contingency budget. Project income and expenses through December 2020.

Reserves
Organizations usually keep a savings equal to at least half of the annual budget. The rationale is for survival for six months if a crisis occurs. Some boards call it their “rainy day fund.” Maximize best use of reserves and assets.

Deadlines
Circumstances may cause missed deadlines. The election process may have passed or the annual meeting postponed. Document the reasons and find other ways to conduct business. Current board members may be asked to extend their terms until an election can be held. Urge past leaders to serve in open seats or supplement board work.

Collaborate
The organization is not in this alone. Collaborate with organizations having similar interests. Maintain open channels of communication to exchange ideas, needs and solutions.

Purposeful Abandonment
Organizations amass a host of activities and events. Now may be the time to analyze activities to check their alignment with mission, return on investment, and the drain on resources. Circumstances necessitate the board perform as the leadership team. Now is not the time for micromanagement, distrust or board absence.
# # #
Note: Bob Harris, CAE, provides free governance tips and templates at www.nonprofitcenter.com.

A guest blog by Chris Mead, Magicians of Main Street
For this blog I am examining chamber executives' work to reduce PPE shortages.  Feel free to "steal" any of the ideas mentioned here or to share these stories with your members.  It's long, so feel free to skip around to what most excites you.  I find these stories inspiring and hope you will too.
- Chris​

As we face the unknown with so many changes coming our way, now more than ever Chambers need to re-think an industry-wide over-reliance on in-person events to fund our organizations.  It's as if W.A.C.E. President Dave Kilby had a crystal ball when he spoke at the 2019 Annual Conference about chambers transitioning from parade and party planners and evolving to leading as a 3-C Chamber. Now more than ever the COVID-19 pandemic takes chamber professionals to the economic front line of being a catalyst, convener and champion for the business community. 

What should your staff focus on to make it through this storm?  Be mission-driven and use the power of your Chamber's sphere of influence to convene those together virtually to dialogue about creative tasks to make it through the weeks ahead.  So now is the time to find your on-line platform of choice, do some practice runs with your family to become an expert on the platform and step up to lead by virtually connecting your stakeholders. Here are some great ideas to get your chamber going:

1.)  Connect with Elected Officials - take the lead to connect your community leaders, Board leaders, major employers and partner organizations with elected officials from the federal, state and local levels. Please don't just open the mic for discussion by all but prepare in advance facilitated lead in questions to make sure the time together is of most value.
2.)  Ask the Experts - pick your topics and choose an energetic expert from within your region to field questions from business peers. Some timely topics now could target HR law; business funding; SBA legislation; marketing/sales during a pandemic; setting up a home office; ZOOM 101 best practices; field questions with health department or local hospital; working from home tips from an expert. The sky is literally the limit as we try to project what will be needed after this storm.  Sadly, many may find themselves without employment and forced into entrepreneurism when that may not have even been on the radar last year so step it up to be the expert in connecting those wanting to start a business with available resources. 
 3.)  Membership Meet-Ups - so your board is in a slight panic about the monthly networking event not happening now. Why not?  If you have a speaker at a luncheon, the show can go on.  And your members will appreciate staying connected.  If you have a monthly platform for business connections, that show can go on, too.  When you go virtual, the staff members control the power of the mute button so how cool is that when you can shift discussion if someone if trying to take way too much mic time?
4.)  Personal Development - as people embrace working from home or even the reality of a potential short term lay-off, the traditional work schedule will shift.  Think of topics that would offer personal development, those areas that many wish we knew more about but we just don't take the time to enhance skills.  How about a hands on training for creative on-line tools like Canva or social media.  This is a great opportunity to train small business owners who have never thought of selling on-line to transition from a brick and mortar only organization.  Social media is a hot button that many small business owners know they should embrace but there never is enough time in the day to find out more about this area.  Think this one threw and you can come up with many topics that your members will appreciate.  And why limit this opportunity for members only?  By offering to non-members, you are showing the community as a whole how we are all in this storm together and we care about all businesses that make up our community.
5.)  Check on Your Members - Chamber professionals have a solid reputation for being the optimism in a community.  However, now is not the time to tell your struggling small businesses that everything will be just fine, because the sad reality is that many won't be able to re-open their doors after all this lifts. Some chambers are planning targeted small group meet-ups with members where you can find out how they are truly holding up and talk about the deeper areas of concern that they are battling.  This is a great opportunity to listen to your members and try and plug in ways that the chamber can help through this crisis.  Many chambers held focus groups in person prior to this year .  . . . why not do virtually now?  Think of 10@10 (ten members at 10:00 a.m.) or 12@12 or however you wish to schedule.  And target group (past board leaders of the Chamber; long-time business owners;  family-owned business reps; etc.  Get creative. Have fun. Go in to the meeting with a target list of lead in questions but most importantly, LISTEN to your members.  These calls are not about the chamber.  These calls are all about the members and will pay dividends when your chamber reaches out for renewals. 

As you move forward, remember that Chambers could work in collaboration with peers in the region to offer these virtual connections as I know chamber professionals excel in the work smarter, not harder professional wins!  You could do these as a ZOOM (or your preferred platform) meeting or as a Facebook Live push.  Please make sure that the microphone audio of those talking is of high quality.  Have a purpose for meeting.  Record the content so that it is accessible for members who can't connect at your scheduled time. Let ICEA know how you are excelling with virtual connections by sending a brief e-mail to shelli@iceaonline.com so that your ideas can be shared with peers. 

 



 

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