A. I didn’t have the success you described in your last blog. I failed miserably when I took on the role of Gala Chair. The members of my committee barely speak to me and I to them. Where did I go wrong? How did you get it done?
Q: I didn’t say it was easy: Chairing a not for profit event is a task worth doing and the Boston Conference was a once in a blue moon opportunity to bring all of my skills together to contribute to an organization that I am absolutely love. I am not going to pose a series of questions to help you determine where you went wrong because failing happens. Your job now is to get back on the horse or (if you prefer) step up to the plate and accept a non-work opportunity that will allow you to grow or test your leadership.
To support your success, let me share my tips on how to get it all done:
- Ask your friends and leverage your connections. The bigger the role, the more support you will need. If you don’t have friends who will respond to your calls or return your messages, don’t take on big roles until you build your base.
- Always keep your word—if you say you are going to do something, do it. If you are not able to do what you promised, communicate immediately.
- Select times that work for your schedule. Remember, this is volunteer work and you do not want to jeopardize your revenue stream.
- Don’t drive yourself nuts by double booking or squeezing in calls while traveling (especially if you are out of the country/time zone). You won’t bring your “A game” to the task. And when your colleagues say that they have a conflict, pick a new date that works for them.
- If a colleague tells you they will “try to make it” or “try to do it, ”press for a concrete time/date and commitment. Trying is not doing and it mucks up the planning.
- Don’t expect your colleagues to change their behavior or style during the course of the project. Accommodate their idiosyncrasies by working around them.
- Lead with excellence and integrity, and celebrate.
Remember that you are choosing a non-work leadership challenge to accelerate your 
growth, expand your leadership skills, to build /leverage your network and have fun. OK? Now, choose wisely and follow the tips to success.