Why do Committees Fail?
Now that we have formed our committees, there are a few things that we would like you to review to insure that the committees stay on task and are productive. Below, we have listed a few characteristics of committees that fail and those that succeed.
Committees fail because the committee and/or the chairperson:
Does not understand their purpose and authority
Does not know how to conduct a meeting
Is not interested in the project or assignment
Does not have enough time to carry out the project or assignment
Is too large or small to handle its work
Lacks adequate resources or guidance
Is not held accountable to the larger group
If you feel that your committee is experiencing or demonstrating any of these characteristics, please let the President and Vice-president know so that we can resolve the problem before it's too late. Next, read the qualities of a successful committee. These next characteristics are ones that you should try to promote in your own committee.
Committees succeed because they have:
A clearly define purpose (mission statement) and specific goals
Good preparation on part of the chairperson and members
Enthusiastic and committed chairperson and members
Good attendance at meetings
Comfortable atmosphere where everyone's ideas are valued
Ability to evaluate ideas apart from personalities
Appropriate size
Good communication among all members
Careful time control: neither meetings nor projects that drag on
Periodic self-assessment of committee's performance
Understanding of the committee's authority and limitations
Recognition and appreciation are given to members so they feel they are making a contribution
The work of the committee is accepted and makes a valuable contribution to the organization
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