I love this term! I first heard this term from Sally Zeiger Hanson, former Executive Director with the Puyallup/Sumner Chamber of Commerce. Though I am relatively a new comer with the chamber, I have been impressed with the way the chamber members have been supportive and encouraging to one another – with a real focus on helping other chapter members grow their business. I believe that this “culture of contribution” permeated from the leadership to the members.
What can happen when you can instill a “culture of contribution” in your organization? I contend that people will experience a positive energy and enthusiasm that can translate to customers. I believe this kind of culture inspires people to want to do their best and motivates others to get involved. And customers can recognize this kind of positive enthusiasm and want to get involved.
How can you create a culture of contribution in your association, team, organization, or board? Here are some ways:
- Hire the right people
- Engage your staff and your customers
- Enthusiastically promote others
- Offer benefits to be involved
- Recognize good work
- Reward contribution
- Create and manage expectations
In my next 9 BLOG entries, I will flesh out every one of these elements.
