Last semester, you were an officer. Now, you’re just a regular member. You have a choice. Are you going to be a cranky former officer who obstructs, criticizes and complains? Or, are you going to be a role model who contributes, supports and shows up? The example you set will deeply impact younger members of your student organization.
Elections are coming soon. You would probably like to see someone succeed you who will build on what you have accomplished in the last year – someone who will firm up your legacy. That’s natural. However, if you make your choice of a successor blatantly known, it might be the kiss of death to that person’s chances. People like change. Now’s a good time to shut up and play neutral.
Are your organization’s elections a total chaotic mess? Are members deciding the night of elections to run, without any actual knowledge of the positions? Are people getting elected on popularity rather than any actual skills? Set forth a process of baby steps in the early part of the Fall semester to identify the best emerging leaders. That way, when elections come, your members can see who has shown initiative and who will best serve the organization.
