June 2025 Leader Letter
Transition Time: Keep it Real!
Augment the preparation of incoming successors with real-life leadership tips.
Do you consider yourself a good leader? Your ability to preserve the club and District knowledge base as your successor comes on board is part of your duty and responsibility. The Toastmaster magazine is brimming with some good reads on the subject that you can pass along, such as Building Extraordinary Teams and Make Succession a Success. As an effective outgoing leader, you should also include real-life leadership ideas in your succession planning:
- Build a true connection. Establish a relationship with your successor by relaying a challenge you overcame in your leadership. Include personal details that show vulnerability and authenticity. Relive the experience, don’t just tell it.
- Go over duties, honestly. Speak confidently about what you accomplished and what the calls to action are, but also incorporate the human conditions of worry, stress, anger, and burnout. Address these given facts of life and leadership to help them anticipate stumbling blocks that are part of the job.
- Caution about impossible standards. Recognize that feeling inadequate in leadership has gained traction as a mental health phenomenon, Imposter Syndrome. This is particularly prevalent when starting new roles or responsibilities. It’s best to talk this out with them at the onset; encourage them to have a good support group with other leaders.
- Help generate an inclusive space. It’s good to have an inclusive discussion before you leave. Leaders today should be very aware of underrepresented demographics on their teams and consider how they can create a more supportive environment for everyone.
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