by Tom Okarma | Oct 5, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Leadership, Strategic Planning
When I led a for-profit company, we used to talk about “creative friction”- a condition whereby people with different opinions on a particular topic were encouraged to voice their opinions and provide evidence to substantiate their positions. It was very helpful in...
by Tom Okarma | Sep 14, 2011 | Blog, Leadership, Strategic Planning
They say leadership is a lonely position. It’s true, but that doesn’t mean you’re all alone. Often, it is better to open the door and let others have a chance to solve the big problems leaders face. I once led an organization that sold services through a...
by Tom Okarma | Aug 23, 2011 | Blog, Leadership, Strategic Planning
Most organizations have a plan for what they what to accomplish in a given year-maybe an elaborate one, maybe a simple one, but they have a plan. That’s good. And, most organizations measure results and various other data. That’s good, too. I’ve...
by Tom Okarma | Aug 2, 2011 | Blog, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning
I recently agreed to serve as co-chair of our nonprofit’s search committee to replace the current president and founder. He will be retiring with the next year or so. He has a wealth of information, wisdom, relationships, and passion. Needless to say, replacing...
by Tom Okarma | Jun 22, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Leadership, Strategic Planning
I came across a very good book about executive searches for nonprofits recently. It is loaded with suggestions and observiation based on real life experience. The Perfect Search by Tommy Thomas could be a terrific resource for you if your nonprofit is about to launch...
by Tom Okarma | May 10, 2011 | Blog, Strategic Planning
Having great marketing, advertising, and PR plans are great first steps in assuring your organization has adequate financial resources to carry out your mission. But is it enough? I say no. The finest website, the classiest brochures, even the snappiest messaging are...
