LaNasi: Resources for
Chapter Presidents

Being President - A Basic Outline
The President of an organization is its foundation and mainstay:

1. Know your facts.
   The President is responsible for the knowledge of all proceedings in his organization, from major policies to the smallest details. This involves research, as well as close communication with subordinates.
2. Divide the work.
   The "hero" who does everything himself does nothing. Delegate responsibility to capable choices - not to friends and good buddies. Selection of subordinates is the most important single function, as they will be the support Structure of the group. Look for these qualities:
   • Past experience
   • Desire to work
   • Ability to do work well
   • Stamina to do all work necessary
   • Punctuality
   • Image
   • Ability to work both under and above others

   Use your best judgment in deciding who will work with whom. Note: Don't ask chairmen for their suggestions until you have outlined for them exactly what you expect. The uninformed chairman is most often the unproductive one.

3. Set Goals for your chapter, your officers and yourself.
   Being a chapter president is a very special and exciting experience. To make your year more meaningful set realistic goals so you and your chapter can work towards some fantastic accomplishments.
4. Call for reports regularly.
   This will not only keep you informed, but will also insure your chairmen having something concrete done in anticipation of your call.
5. Criticize accurately and constructively.
   Let your helpers know that you want to work with them in the fine job they are doing. Smile as you criticize and be sure to include alternative suggestions and a compliment on a good effort.
6. Comment on the good as well as the bad.
   Nothing prompts a good worker more than a compliment. If a result of someone's labors is really good, share your pleasure by letting the person responsible know that his efforts are appreciated - you'll be amazed at how far a compliment and a thank go.
7. Don't procrastinate.
   Tomorrow never comes - do it today. All with whom you'll work will appreciate your efficiency and will respond with their own promptness. Answer mail immediately. Return phone calls as soon as possible. Your example will show others the true meaning of executive ability.

8. Be punctual.
   If you are late, you cannot expect anyone else to be on time. Plan to arrive early for all appointments and meetings, and demand punctuality from your workers.
9. Keep a record of your actions.
   Be sure your correspondence is neat, complete, and accurate. Indicate on all of your mail the date of receipt. Any important transactions should be done in writing, and you should keep a copy of any important letter or documents that you write or receive. Also, be sure to keep a copy of all-important letters sent out by your chairmen.
10. Read all communications carefully.
    Note deadlines and stick to them. Never throw away mail, file it for possible future reference. Be sure you understand completely the content of every letter, which you receive and be explicit in letters, which you write. Remember a letter from a President must be comprehensible not only to your correspondent, but to anyone who may refer to that letter at a later date.
11. Proofread all materials before they are officially printed.
    In doing this, realize that the author of the publication may have a style not like your own. Try to preserve the original meaning and tone of the author, while also being sure to exclude factual and grammatical errors. Be diplomatic in your comments.