Leading in the not-for-profit (NFP) sector comes with unique challenges, especially when working with volunteers. Striking the balance between ambition and sustainability is no small task.
The leadership imperative: fostering connection
Leadership in NFPs isn’t just about outcomes – it’s about creating a culture where people thrive. Allowing culture to develop organically risks disengagement or tension. Instead, leaders must proactively build a culture that reflects the organisation’s mission and values, ensuring staff and volunteers feel supported and valued.
Culture as the anchor in change
Periods of growth or crisis often test organisational culture. Leaders need to identify early signs of cultural strain, like reduced engagement, and address them through systemic solutions. This involves fostering open conversations, redefining expectations, and co-creating ways to move forward as a team. By anchoring behaviours in trust rather than control, leaders create conditions where teams can navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Practical actions for leaders
- Start the conversation: Regularly check in with your team to understand their experiences.
- Co-design your Social Contract: Collaborate on behaviours and ways of working that reflect shared purpose.
- Anchor to purpose: Keep mission and values central, especially during change.
By taking deliberate actions, leaders can nurture cultures that empower their teams to thrive while staying true to their organisation’s purpose.
Are you ready to define a Social Contract with your team? Let’s create a culture of trust, resilience, and purpose – together.
