Hot Air and Talking Heads
It was a case of talking heads…
A few weeks ago I attended a chapter meeting and met a former member - Gladys.
Gladys was in town for the week and used to be active in the chapter. She complained how she didn’t know any cool people in her new hometown.
Well, I just happen to have a network of amazing chapter leaders all over the country - including her hometown.
Gladys seemed fairly excited when I made the offer to connect her with one of my favorite leaders. Someone who had a lot in common with her - and could introduce her around locally to the movers and shakers.
When I got back to the office, I contacted my chapter leader friend.
Gladys had a voicemail and email welcoming her home within minutes. (My friend loves to meet new people.)
I spoke to my friend today and asked how it went with Gladys.
Gladys had not acknowledged either the email or voice message.
Too bad. Gladys took quite a bit of air space to complain about how lonely she was.
(I’m not sure if Gladys just enjoyed the attention from complaining - or if she’s too shy to respond.)
Gladys, in her decision to not respond, triggered a series of reactions:
- She’s still lonely
- My friend missed out on meeting someone new
- My friend and I both lost time that could have been spent helping others.
- Her reputation will precede her as someone who does not follow through. (Gladys has her own business and will eventually cross paths with my friend - they have interests in common.)
As a chapter leader, how do you make sure your team members are active connectors – rather than just talking heads like Gladys?
Filed under: Getting More Members Involved, Savvy Leadership
