Past President of Ann Arbor Ad Club

Last week was my final event as President of the Ann Arbor Ad Club.  Today I talk to the new president about what his duties are, where we finished and what needs to be done.  Along the way I learned a lot about myself and leadership.

1.  I ain't all that but I ain't half bad.   I am what I like to call a managing woman.  My dad taught me to stop and think before I act and we have a long family tradition of managing everything.  My  husband and butted heads a lot when we first were married.  I was just used to being in charge all the time.  My calling was to teaching and there I learned that good teaching was more about listening then talking, I find the same with leadership.  I tried to focus on a direction with the Ad Club, have group discussion and consensus and then let the Chairs do their thing.  I learned that most of the time it works very well but occasionally someone will get stuck and need assistance.  Myself included. 

2.  Short term decisions are made with long term plans.  Not every short term decision looks correct at the time to everyone but it is leaders job to communicate the big picture.  I have so much more empathy for those in charge. 

3.  A good support person is worth their weight in gold.  Sometimes you don't recognize them either.   I know myself- I think big picture and am thankful for our groups accountant in keeping the me and the paperwork in order.  She is an obvious support person but then there are the people who help in the less obvious way.  The person who catches every little mistake and tells you- This person is necessary!  The person who does what needs to be done with out any discussion- This person is usually overlooked because the make no noise.  The person who is a stickler for consistency- This person knows why things are done in a certain way and will keep you safe.  Thank you to all the people who helped me and kept me standing straight.

4.  It really does take a village.  The Ann Arbor Ad Club is a volunteer organization and we are only as good as we contribute.  There are many people in the club who give hours and hours to the club and I would like to thank them. Thank you!  We have a purpose and a job to do in the Ad Club.

5.  Being a member is fun and being President was a gift to me.