Who Do You Blame for Losing Members?
Posted on June 11th, 2009 by Cynthia D'Amour
The chapter next door?
Just published an article getting a lot of action on Twitter and via email.
- @SteveDrake says it “Beats ‘Bowling Alone’!”
- Thought I’d share here so we can talk about it.
- What do you think?
Here’s the big picture…
- One association, two local chapters.
- The City Chapter is losing members.
- The Metro Chapter is growing.
City Chapter blames Metro Chapter for their problems.
- Some former City members now active in Metro.
- And one stepped up to leadership - Metro!
- It’s just wrong!
City is filing an ethical complaint against Metro Chapter.
- For poaching their members.
- It’s all Metro’s fault City is having problems.
- (Get all the details here.)
What do you think?
- I say City leaders need to stop blaming others.
- And acknowledge their role in their chapter’s losses.
- Am I being too harsh?
Makes me think of chapter leaders…does your board assume responsibility for the health of your chapter?
Filed under: Board challenges, Keeping members
Cynthia — Seems to me this is another sign of the malaise that has gripped the general population for a long time and seems to only be getting worse: the “can’t be my/our fault” syndrome.
Lots of people talk about accountability, but it’s as elusive as the ivory-billed woodpecker — some would even say it’s extinct, it’s spotted so rarely and shows itself to so few.
What is it that makes us so reluctant to say, “We’re failing at this and this…. we need to do that and that…”?
Hi Ellen,
Thanks for stopping by. Love your metaphor.
I don’t think we are taught to appreciate failure in our schools. Those who get lower grades are rarely talked to about what they learn from the experience.
We would see a lot more innovation in our country if we viewed failure is a learning experience rather than something we need to ignore or avoid at all costs. We would be more likely to nip issues in the bud - rather than wait for everything to tank (and we can’t hide it any more!)
We also need to celebrate creativity and innovation more. It’s the flip side of being okay when things go not as expected.
Does anybody know why members are leaving one chapter and going to the other?
Are you being too harsh? I don’t think so.
Reality can be harsh!
It’s a pain in the butt when reality gives you a slap in the face! It’s even worse when you’ve been slapped in the face and you’re still in the first stage of grief: shock and denial. Who wants to align with a sinking ship doing the same old thing they’ve always done and expecting better results?
Sounds like one chapter has extrordinary leadership and the other one is leadership lacking.
David, we can ask and look at trends. This was a case of contrasts - and could still be validated.
Jeff - I agree. I always say leadership and the chapter experience makes or breaks a chapter. Struggle is not the fault of those who do not stick around.