How To Be A LEADER AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY

How To Be A LEADER AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY 2017 -2022 PROGRAMS ACTION PLAN HOW TO GUIDES -Leadership 1

True or False 1. Is the definition of leadership the ability to achieve a position and title? 2. Should a leader be excepted to know all of the answers?

Multiple Choice 3. In the Auxiliary at all levels what resources should a good leader have available? a. Most current Unit Constitution & By-laws including Standing Rules b. Most current Department Constitution & By-laws including Standing Rules c. Most current National Constitution & By-laws including Standing Rules d. Parliamentary Procedure e. Unit Guide Book f. All of the above 3

Multiple Choice 4. What level of knowledge should a leader have about the programs of the American Legion Auxiliary? a. Expansive b. Familiar c. Know who to ask

5. Fill in the Blank • A good leader exhibits their ________ through excitement; demonstrated, unswerving commitment to our vision, instills hope and inspiration to other members. A good leader “walks the talk” and in doing so earns the right to lead.

6. Fill in the Blank If you exhibit a proper attitude in _____, really ____, to your members the potential for identifying new opportunities will emerge. Instill in yourself, and others, that _______ is an opportunity to grow. In the end, your success as a leader will be predicated upon your ability to _____ and understand the viewpoint of others.

7. Multiple Choice A leader should bea. upbeat with an optimistic attitude b. discouraged or apathetic 8. Fill in the blank A good leader must possess unquestionable character and lead with _____ gives you so much as a leader; credibility, trust, confidence, influence and more.

9. True or False • Is leadership a one-way relationship? 8

1. Answer: No, Leadership has nothing to do with titles nor position. “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. ” (author unknown) 2. Answer: No, Be Knowledgeable – It is not necessary to be an expert on everything, but basic knowledge is essential.

3. Answer: f. All of the above a-c: The Constitution & By. Laws including Standing Rules should provide in black and white the governance of your Unit, Department, & National. Neither the Unit nor the Department can be in conflict with National.

d. Parliamentary Procedure provides guidance on meeting structure, election process, and motions. e. Unit Guide Book (revised 2019) provides a level of familiarity with procedures and programs of The American Legion Auxiliary

4. Answer • b & c: Familiar & Know who to ask A leader should be familiar with all programs of the Auxiliary, but does not have to know all of the answers. A leader should always know where to look for assistance. 5. Answer: Passion 6. Answer: listening, listen 12

7. Answer: A leaders should have an upbeat, optimistic attitude that serves as a source of inspiration for others. Be a cheerleader. Motivate others by your enthusiasm. Follow up with your members to ensure they are achieving the goals, objectives and milestones established. 8. Answer: Integrity, integrity 13

9. Answer: • No, As you work toward developing leadership qualities in yourself, do not forget to look to your fellow members for feedback and inspiration. • Pay attention to the things that have been effective in the past and always be on the lookout for new ways to inspire, motivate and reward your members. • Be willing to delegate responsibility – use the talents of others! • Always instill a climate of goodwill. • Be respectful. Remember those all-important "shout outs" to deserving members and certainly the two most important words, Thank you. • Care about your members and strive to help build leadership capacity in them? 14

REMEMBER: • Be Confident - Be aware of the way and manner which you present yourself. Bearing is everything! • Be decisive in your decision-making. Members will pick up on your approach to leadership and find reassurance, clear direction and security when a leader portrays confidence and positive demeanor. 15

• Act Professionally - As a leader, you should be cordial to all of your members. You should also recognize the importance of dressing appropriately, showing up for meetings on time, and communicating in a professional manner. • Your goals and expectations should be clear from the beginning. Members will be more motivated and less confused. • Ask for input. Tell them that their perspective is crucial to your success. • Give credit where credit is due. 16

Leaders Never Stop Learning • “Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young. ” Henry Ford 17