Coalition Worst Practices
Sean Kosofsky
National Nonprofit Expert, Coach, Consultant, and Trainer. I transform nonprofit leaders and organizations. 5 x Nonprofit Executive Director
Continuing with our series on “worst practices, below is a partial list of things to avoid in leading or participating in a coalition.
· Failing to get alignment from your board that you have the authority to formally or informally serve in coalitions
· Failing to think strategically about how to engage coalitions. Before joining any coalitions, ask how it is furthering your organization’s mission. Sometimes you can agree to serve in a coalition because by doing so now, the favor will be returned.
· Failing to determine the time and resources needed to participate. Don’t underestimate the time needed for very important and effective coalitions.
· Joining and not fully “showing up” as promised or expected. Some coalitions are “in name only” so all you have to do is lend your name. For coalitions that matter, you should be a leader. Consider it part of your mission.