One of my greatest concerns as 2020 rolled by was, “How will groups recover once they shut down for any length of time?”
What a time that was.
- So many events and projects set on hold.
- So many plans cancelled.
- So many people suddenly with far more free time than they were used to.
- So many groups slowly fracturing as some members became comfortable with no longer attending meetings.
Without getting into the debate over necessity, it happened.
Has your group recovered? Were you able to pick up where you left off? What changes have you noticed? Did all of your previous members come back?
Those might be hard questions.
If your group is facing any of them, you are likely thinking of what next steps are needed.
How does your group handle big questions?
One of the things which has always challenged volunteer groups, as well as more professional ones, is when social caution limits free discussion. Add in the fear or frustration created while the world shut down, and groups need to navigate meet the challenge of moving forward amidst the fear of upsetting others around the table.
It was never uncommon for one or two voices to take over at meetings. People reacted as they did. But now it is possible there is another layer of emotion to navigate.
The answer: practice having hard conversations.
In my online course IE Toolbox Workshop there is two part section specifically designed to help your group learn how to work through conflict. You will learn that conflict, while uncomfortable at first, can become a springboard to success.
Ignite the Engaged was born of the question, “How can I help volunteer groups better at doing what they do?” Navigating conflict is one big step in that process.
Let me know how your group has handled getting back in the groove. Describe some of your challenges. How did getting back together feel? Did you change some things up? What things did you realize were important to keep doing?
I look forward to exploring your challenges and success stories.