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Written by CMSgt Jose LugoSantiago During our 2010 AFSA European Division Convention, one of the things we discussed was the important topic of Project Management. Why is this important? Most of you either lead, enable others to lead, facilitate, or are involved in some kind of community project. Projects like POW/MIA ceremonies, retreats, picnics that involved your entire base, or even those that are inherent in your primary responsibilities require a degree of discipline for success. Here is a recipe. - UNDERSTAND that the first principle is LEADERSHIP. We define leadership in the AF as the “art of influencing and directing people to accomplish the mission.” This definition is a classic. The basic premise stem from the fact that art is personal and never the same. (Even if you’re a skilled painter, you will not be able to paint the same picture twice. Something in the picture will be different.) In our context this mean that the way we go about accomplishing and directing people will also be different every time—consider personalities, group dynamics, and environmental factors.
- Everything starts with A DREAM. “I have a dream…” Do you have one? When thinking about project outcomes, think in BIG terms. Think about how this project is going to look. No fear! Again, think in BIG terms and devise a plan and strategy. Paint in your mind the right picture. Remember that everything is created twice. First is the mental creation, and secondly, the physical creation (this part is called execution).
- Another ingredient is RIGHT PEOPLE for the RIGHT JOB. Hand select those people who will be responsible for key parts of your project. Then, communicate your vision. They have to be able to see what you see. Even if they start thinking you’re going crazy…keep communicating your beautiful vision. Slowly, they will start aligning their efforts to match your picture. And slowly the beautiful ceremony will start to take place.
- The LAST ingredient I would like to discuss before going into the ppt presentation (attached) is PERSISTENCE. Track your efforts and the efforts of your team. Set time-tables and follow-up check points, so you can see how things are going. Delegate as much as possible, to the point where you’re free to wonder around. That’s how you can catch the details (when you’re wondering around). Then, insist on meeting the goals. Prepare to go solo; stay persistent, yet flexible in accomplishing objectives.
- Take a look at the ATTACHED PRESENTATION (link below) for a few more success "ingredients."
Remember, you want to represent our Association like no other. You want to score a BIG HIT! Then when you do, everyone will be asking, “Who did that?” The response will proudly be, “Our AFSA Chapter did it…BAM!!”
Always Motivated, Div Pres 16 Chief LugoSantiago
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