It’s all about Connecting
As an advocate, connecting is something you do all the time. A large part of your role is connecting both externally and internally. External communication involves recruiting volunteers, engaging other in the ministry of the FAM, and spreading awareness. Internal communication involves the orientation and overseeing of your volunteers and connecting with the foster families being served. Connecting is an important tool you utilize to carry out your role.
Connecting requires:
Initiative - go first
Clarity - know yourself, your audience, and your mission
Selflessness - your ultimate motivation is to give
Stamina - recharge, connecting with others takes energy (Everyone Communicates. Few Connect. John C. Maxwell)
Let’s talk about connecting internally, within your FAM, specifically, connecting with Team Leaders. Team leaders are the boots on the ground connection with the foster families. The majority of their role is to communication with the supported family and the team, keeping everyone apprised of the needs and who is meeting them. Keeping open communication with Team Leaders ensures not only they feel supported and well resourced in leading the team, but that the supported family feels the same.
As you think about how to best connect with your Team Leaders, consider meeting with them routinely as a good practice to keep lines of communication and connection open. Schedule monthly check ins with your team leaders. This could look different each month, but there should be an effort made each month and a real connection made every other month.
This routine contact has two main goals: information transfer and building up relational capital to keep an open line of communication. With this routine contact, the Team Leader is reminded of your availability, the resources available to them, and even of the responsibilities of their role.
Don’t neglect the connect! :)
Survey Question:
Would it be helpful to you all for Welcomed to host a virtual team leader resource meeting? Answer Here
Team Leader Resource would be an annual virtual meeting aimed at refreshing Team Leaders on their role, encourage them as they carry out their roles, and resource and empower them in their roles.
