Assess Your Association

Assessments are a big part of officiating. Usually, it means an observer or peer watching you work and discerning your strengths and weaknesses. In the same way an individual is assessed, your association merits a look-see.

Recruitment.

Are you bringing new people into the fold? If not, do your recruitment efforts need some fine-tuning? There are all sorts of ways to draw new blood to the avocation. One group has rousing success placing help wanted ads on Craigslist. That website isn’t just for used furniture or apartment rentals anymore.

Retention.

Once you get people in the door, you need to keep them coming back. There are many reasons why people give up officiating. One of the leading causes is lack of training. Ramp up your programs and you’ll find your attendance and retention rates will improve.

Feedback.

Your members have likely developed conclusions about your chapter. Those can be good or bad. Encourage both but listen carefully to the negative comments. Are they legitimate gripes? If so, set about fixing the problems. You can’t solve every problem, but take care of things within your sphere of control.

Dues.

It costs a bit of money to be an official. There are uniforms, equipment, training materials and state association or other fees. Don’t give away your knowledge, but examine whether your association dues are commensurate with what you offer. If you have a decline in memberships, don’t automatically raise dues. Raising fees is sometimes necessary, but give the members something worth paying for and they’ll reach into their wallets, even if they grumble while doing it.

Leadership.

Are the same people being elected to positions of leadership year after year? It might be time for new blood. Fresh perspectives are important and should be solicited. If you have members who, through their questions and comments at meetings, seem to have a lot on the ball, approach them about seeking a leadership position. Don’t pester, but don’t accept at face value the usual excuse that “I don’t have time.” Some people may want to help but need a little coaxing. A little extra digging may result in mining an undiscovered diamond.