Indianapolis Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Michael McLendon gives Kiwanis divisional leaders advice on how to avoid burn-out as they begin to prepare for their 100th anniversary celebration to be held in June 2015.
Battalion Commander’s Speech Provides Spark for Kiwanis
By Joe Jobin, USAREC, Indianapolis Battalion
Dec. 23, 2014
As Kiwanis International prepares its 100th anniversary celebration next year, members start the task of recruiting volunteers and setting into action projects necessary to host more than 10,000 Kiwanians in Indianapolis.
Lt. Col. Michael McLendon, commander Indianapolis Recruiting Battalion shared some insight on how to help motivate the volunteers and provide tips that will assist them in avoiding “burn-out” as the long hours mount up over the course of the next several months.
“As we experience a high tempo and organization changes in the military, I am always looking for ways not to burn-out myself, or my subordinates in the work place,” he said. “There are times when things become overwhelming and can take its toll: mentally, physically, and emotionally.”
To help prepare, McLendon told the Kiwanis Indiana District Division Council meeting to use 10 potential strategies when working with their volunteers:
While many of these strategies are not new, “When they are presented to you by an officer in uniform like Lt. Col. McLendon, you tend to look at them in a new light with a heightened regard,” said Chris Martz, Indy Metro Division Lieutenant Governor.
U.S. Army Recruiting Command is a sponsor and partner with Kiwanis International, a global organization dedicated to serving the children of the world.
“What a great opportunity it is to be associated with an organization like Kiwanis,” said McLendon. “They represent the same values as we do in the Army: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.”
By Joe Jobin, USAREC, Indianapolis Battalion
Dec. 23, 2014
As Kiwanis International prepares its 100th anniversary celebration next year, members start the task of recruiting volunteers and setting into action projects necessary to host more than 10,000 Kiwanians in Indianapolis.
Lt. Col. Michael McLendon, commander Indianapolis Recruiting Battalion shared some insight on how to help motivate the volunteers and provide tips that will assist them in avoiding “burn-out” as the long hours mount up over the course of the next several months.
“As we experience a high tempo and organization changes in the military, I am always looking for ways not to burn-out myself, or my subordinates in the work place,” he said. “There are times when things become overwhelming and can take its toll: mentally, physically, and emotionally.”
To help prepare, McLendon told the Kiwanis Indiana District Division Council meeting to use 10 potential strategies when working with their volunteers:
- Plan the work, and then work the plan. By laying out a plan for all of the work that needs to be completed, your members will understand that it is attainable, and they’ll see the structure that will deliver the results.
- It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Because you have so many opportunities in 2015, it’s important to pace yourself and move at a speed that is comfortable for all.
- Celebrate the milestones. Celebrate your team’s achievements as they happen. The finish line does not seem so far away when team members are able to see the progress that has been made.
- Recognize individual accomplishments. While this is a team endeavor, every one of us needs a little personal encouragement and recognition when things go well.
- Communicate effectively. Team members can become frustrated when they do not know what is coming next. Ensure everyone is working from the same game plan.
- Take care of yourself. You’re not able to offer your best work if you’re not operating at full strength.
- Take a break. Both volunteers and leaders must ensure they take some down time so they can refresh and come back rejuvenated.
- Find your chief of staff. Empower one of your club members to simply manage the resources within your team and to watch out for those members that might be approaching burn-out.
- Rotate your lineup. Rotation will help the volunteers develop new skills, expand horizons, and prevent complacency of repetitious work.
- Have fun. If you and your fellow Kiwanians can have fun with the different opportunities ahead of you, you’ll be amazed how much can be accomplished.
While many of these strategies are not new, “When they are presented to you by an officer in uniform like Lt. Col. McLendon, you tend to look at them in a new light with a heightened regard,” said Chris Martz, Indy Metro Division Lieutenant Governor.
U.S. Army Recruiting Command is a sponsor and partner with Kiwanis International, a global organization dedicated to serving the children of the world.
“What a great opportunity it is to be associated with an organization like Kiwanis,” said McLendon. “They represent the same values as we do in the Army: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.”