What You Put In…Is What You Get Out

I have been a member of IMPI off and on over the years. I have always valued the education and networking opportunities. Professionally, I work for a company that nearly doubles in size every 18 months which requires my attention to support our global growth and develop leaders. Personally, I am married with two small children that as of this fall are both finally in elementary school. Thus, it is always a delicate balance when thinking about taking on more.

In goal setting, I have changed my approach and challenged myself to look for synergy in my professional development activities creating “win-win” scenarios. This approach is mostly because of the age-old dilemma “so much to do, so little time”. This year some of my goals include:

• Gain a wider perspective on trends and challenges in the meetings industry to present solutions to our clients.
• Improve my “toolbox” to develop leaders on my team.
• Renew and proactively engage in the community.

At the beginning of 2019, I was approached by our IMPI Chapter to participate in the Board as Director, Communications July 2019 – July 2020 (though ideally a 2-year commitment). I was honored and flattered to have been considered. As part of the ramp plan, I had the opportunity to attend committee meetings and a board retreat.

Observing the communications committee under the leadership of Laura Rowe, I was blown away by the engagement of our volunteers. Everyone is busy, this we know. However, our chapter is so special to have people willing to share their talents to support specific and strategic objectives. It is no wonder that we are a high performing chapter.

Our incoming board retreat was two days of inspired strategy sessions, networking, and education. The session our member CJ McClanahan offered on “The 5 Levels of Commitment” is one that I have referenced several times in the management of my team, clients and volunteers. I am so impressed with the board members who have held a variety of leadership roles over the years. The institutional knowledge to drive our chapter forward is strong.

While I am only two months into my commitment, I can tell you that my engagement with IMPI is checking off all of the boxes to support my professional goals. My hope is that other members will:

1. Continue to make their professional development a priority
2. Consider if volunteering with IMPI will help support any of those goals
3. Discover IMPI
4. Engage where your talents and treasures align

If you are interested in getting more out of IMPI by putting more into it, connect with Christine Robinett our Director, Leadership Development or visit the website to join a committee.