10 Steps to Build/Rebuild an Organization

As a startup instigator and a resuscitator of organizations, I recently realized how the same pattern has served me well over the years. These steps have led to the creation of a series of youth drop-in centres, a youth emergency shelter, scads of affordable housing and a volunteer match-making service.

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Now, I share these insights so others can also embrace this formula and change a situation for the better. In each case, it takes a talented team to have a real impact.

1) Identify the real problem.

Your first instinct may be to lay blame. Resist this urge and instead look deeper. Issues arise from multiple causes rooted in assumptions and approaches that may no longer work. To find an innovative way forward, you may forge a new path but first you need a solutions-based perspective.

2) Infectiously recruit good people to help solve it.

Look for a range of skills beyond the usual circle of decision makers. Communicate why you want them aboard and inspire them with your passion. At this point, you may wish to involve those already working toward a solution. By adding fresh blood, you bolster their energy and give them new outlooks to create momentum.

3) Research.

Sure, you think you understand the issue but others have likely identified it in their communities as well. Learn from their expertise. You don’t need to follow their models, but you can save valuable time. Take in the data and the suggestions then bounce them off your team. The results may delight you.

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4) Brainstorm possible solutions.

This is where the magic happens. Keep an open mind as you throw everything on the table. You never know when a wild idea could take root or lead to something else interesting.

Start with a strategic outlook then think of short, medium and long-term plans to advance it. Consider how each person can contribute to incrementally move towards success.

5) Develop an action plan.

Even if it only addresses the first three steps, this is progress. Pick the steps that are most tangible to build some momentum. This helps build teamwork and draws in other potential partners. However, hang onto the full list and add to it as you go along.

Commit to tackling them in a priority sequence based on the resources you have at your disposal. If it helps, break them into areas of focus to be tackled by separate committees, such as finance or marketing.

6) Widen your circle.

Keeping recruiting for the skills you need with short-term allies and long-term members. Assign leadership roles to your early champions to share the workload and the knowledge base. Start telling influential people who have money and other resources to help you.

When you identify talent gaps, search for new people to fill those roles. Reach beyond your usual group of friends to find new perspectives. You can do this via networking, social media or established volunteer recruiting platforms.

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7) Brand yourself as an expert to do this type of work, citing the power of your team.

At this point, you’ve studied and consolidated a lot of knowledge. If anyone challenges you on what you know, invite them to join the team. Collaboration strengthens your ability to get to the next phase quicker.

8) Go public and ask for help with the priorities you’ve identified.

Share what you know and what you want to do. This provides further feedback and idea flows to fuel the fire. Make sure to capture all voices and their contact information so you can update them as you continue to evolve.

9) Stop and reflect.

Does the path carry on the way you expected or take a different turn? Don’t be afraid to change course if it produces a better result. Stay humble and open to learning.

10) Finally, refine and repeat.

Keep widening your base of knowledge and number of champions then share your successes. Continue to learn and grow while focusing on solutions, not wallowing in problems.

The more often you go through this exercise, the more it becomes natural. The secret it to remain open to new information and partners. You may surprise yourself by what path ultimately takes you to the finish line.

Along the way, enjoy the ride as you change the world. It creates a rush like no other.