STRATEGIC PROGRESS WELL-RECEIVED AT CONFERENCES

At the time of this writing, most of the districts have met for their spring conferences. In addition to conducting the important but routine business—such as electing officers—the main focus has been on keeping the members in the loop about the progress that the strategic core team is making in redefining our association.

The general consensus has been, “It’s about time! This is the most positive stuff we’ve heard in a long time.” Despite our attempts to educate members on that fact that they ARE the international, it seems that many members still have felt disconnected from the more global entity. This community effort to steer us in the right direction for the future has awoken passion in many Craftsmen. People are excited and want our efforts to succeed. This is sound evidence that we are certainly on the right track. 

The main concerns everyone seems to have are the timeline of the process and the desire to continue to be kept in the loop. This is an unconventional year, in that we know there are huge changes coming and yet they are 

We need to depend on the strategic committee, the advisory committee, and the International District Governors to keep the lines of communication open with the members. The best way to stay personally informed is to be added to the advisory committee. If you’re interested in receiving regular updates, send your e-dress to strategy team leader Julie Hiatt at juliehiatt@gloful.com.

No one wants to just get to the convention, receive everything and be expected to vote on it. It is human nature to feel that a higher force is trying to railroad ideas if there is a lack of communication. We must avoid that perception at all costs by passing on updates as they happen.

This is another incredibly important reason that EVERY CLUB should have an informed delegate in attendance at the International Convention on the cruise in August. If a club cannot send a delegate, we need to have them arrange for a proxy vote so no one’s voice goes unheard. This is YOUR association, people, so speak up!

And we need to Think Globally, Act Locally. This association is not limited to the business opportunities on your street. Your “neighborhood” now reaches around the globe, thanks to technology. Big changes are coming and it’s very exciting. We all need to stay open-minded and positive. Be a part of history as we define our future.

I’m counting down the days to the convention of a lifetime and some association-changing decisions.

Yours in Craftsman-Ship,
Bill Orr
International Chairman