Even if you had every good intention to serve in an officer position when you were elected, unexpected things can come up to force you to step down from serving sooner than expected. It might be a career move that takes more time than expected, an unanticipated move or health issues for yourself or family. When you have to step down, there is a right way to do it. Follow these steps to leave gracefully.
Apologize for the Inconvenience
Recognize that you’re putting your association in a tough spot and acknowledge it. Sure, an apology doesn’t solve the problem you’re causing, but it’s common courtesy and the least you can do.
Give Your Fellow Board Members/Officers as Much Notice as Possible
That can be tough at times, but let other leaders know as soon as you know that you might have a conflict that may force you to resign your position sooner than later. It gives your association needed time to appoint your replacement or set up a special election to fill the position.
Finish a Pressing Project
Just because you have to step down from the board commitment of serving on as an officer doesn’t mean you can’t finish up a project you’re working on, whether it’s related to running a camp or banquet, setting up a mentoring program or heading a recruitment drive. Whatever the case, unless you’re leaving for an urgent health reason, you should be able to make the time commitment to finish the project. Yes, it might mean longer hours for a few weeks, but that’s what you signed up for and you shouldn’t pass the buck when it’s possible for you to tough it out.
Leave the Position Better Than You Found It
Before leaving your position, you should take the time to write a report on what you learned related to your position and provide some ideas for your association. Don’t leave the position without making a mark, even if you’re only there a short time.
Make Time to Coach Your Replacement
Even if you don’t have the time to serve as a president or secretary anymore, make yourself available to your replacement. That might mean meeting with him or her to go over what the position entails. Or it could entail just telling the individual that he or she can call you at any time with questions or concerns.
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