How to Lead a Non-Profit Organization
Running a non-profit organization is no easy feat. Like any other business venture, non-profit outfits require a lot of time and resources in order to be successful. However, investing all the time and money in the world will do no good if the organization is not coordinated and organized on the inside.
But how exactly do non-profits become successful? Truthfully, there really is no difference between the structure of a non-profit and a for-profit organization. Both are businesses, and need to follow some sort of plan or overall mission in order to achieve their objectives.
Also, the fundamental qualities of a successful business exist in both models. For example, non-profits and for-profits absolutely need to follow a budget in order to be sure that there resources are allocated properly and that nothing is falling between the cracks.
But budget is just one of many tasks that need to be mastered. Truthfully, if you are thinking of starting a non-profit, you may want to look into a continuing education program in order to cover all the topics that you need to know. Below are a few more areas of study that are absolutely essential:
Leadership and Communications
The prosperity of any business endeavour comes down to leadership and communications. When a team is led by an enthusiastic, inspiring, and honest mission, the people within the organization will be propelled to work towards the overall goal every step of the way.
Practical Human Resources Management
If structured well and given the proper significance, Human Resources Management can stand as the foundation of an organization. Human Resources will be responsible for organizing all matter that’s deal with recruitment (interviews, selection, and terminations) and retention (performance feedback and evaluations). HR Management will also be the principal resource of information regarding employee policies and non-profit legislation, which of course must be followed diligently at all times. HR may also promote employee-programs that focus on morale, like setting up the possibility for employees to expand their knowledge by taking courses at a local institution or through distance education.
Board and Staff Responsibilities
Much like how HR will handle various duties, the other staff and organization members absolutely need designated responsibilities. This may sound obvious, but a project needs to be upheld by a group of people that consist of individuals who know exactly what they bring to the table and how to bring it. Anyone in a leadership role always needs to know what the project needs and how the team will function.
Strategic and Long-Range Planning
Although there are particular features that carry through over to almost any business or organization, each one functions on a specific model catered to its own goals. Details regarding starting costs, geography, industry, and so much more all go into consideration when planning out how an organization will be structured and how it will grow.