What makes a nonprofit willing and able to change and grow? Is there a “secret formula” to this readiness?
In her blog on Social Velocity, Nell Edgington identifies 5 traits that indicate an organization might be a good candidate for change or growth:
You have momentum among Board and staff: while not all of your key internal stakeholders need to agree, a significant number of them have to believe that the time for change is now
You have a clear idea what the definition of change is: you are utilizing opportunities to consider and discuss what change looks like for your organization and you can set some specific goals for change.
There is a belief that change can happen: the collective power of positive thinking creates momentum and enthusiasm.
You have the ability to have difficult conversations about potential challenges to growth: you have a group that is able to confront these issues and be honest about how to address them.
There is a strong commitment across the organization: everyone participates, everyone has a specific role and a way to be involved in making and facilitating change.
As Edgington says, you either have these traits, or you develop them. But without them, you won’t get too far.
Is your organization ready for takeoff? I can help!