The reality for most nonprofit executives is that we have fewer resources and more competition for those shrinking resources than ever before. But it’s not going to change anytime soon. So it is up to nonprofit leaders to embrace and adapt to that new reality. Instead of beating our heads against the wall of change, let’s adapt to meet it.
In fact, it is time for a new kind of nonprofit leader, one who has the confidence, ability, foresight, energy, and strength of will to really lead the nonprofit sector forward. That requires skill at having the tough conversations. For example, what are you going to do about the Board leader who will only give their time, rarely gives their talent and refuses to give their treasure (money)?
So is it possible that it is time for us as nonprofit leaders to refuse to play nice? The culture of nonprofits is one of collaboration and diversity. We bend over backwards to make sure everyone has a voice. And that is a very good thing. The new leader, however, may need to overcome the nonprofit norm of politeness at all costs and gets real with funders, board members, or staff who are standing in the way of the mission and impact of the organization.
It is called tough love. It isn't always easy but it works.
I agree with the leadership function, but you put a corporate stiff or a control freak executive "getting tough with staff and donors" in power and you are committing organizational suicide. Doners, funders, whoever is opening their pocketbooks and bank accounts are going to respond to the the founders or victims of said charity who possesses the heart, passion, and soul of the non profit. Get rid of the corporate stiffs riding the coattails of someone else's passion.
ReplyDeleteIts like you read my mind! You appear to know so much
ReplyDeleteabout this, like you wrote the book in it or something.
I think that you could do with a few pics to drive the message home a bit, but other than that, this is fantastic blog.
A fantastic read. I will certainly be back.