Captain, this is your alumni network speaking

Great networks don’t run on autopilot    

Dear Friends,

Following a successful #LoveAlumni month in February - the theme for March is networking and networks!  

This week, I read Tim Mobbs terrific article on networks entitled: The Invisible Work of Network Leadership.  

The article also includes the subtitle: "Why great networks don’t run on autopilot—and why the best leaders make it look effortless." 

Curious? In his words:

"This article is about the invisible work that makes networks strong—the facilitation, nudging, and cultural shaping that holds everything together." 

All of this rings true in the alumni space. He cautions against the autopilot model. Things can't run on their own. Alumni leadership is the catalyst to effective alumni networks.  

Even planes don't run entirely on autopilot. Pilots continue to have a key role is navigating and getting us where we need to go. Imagine our alumni leaders are the pilots of our networks! 

Your challenge this week: 

Alumni professionals: Identify one key alumni leader who is instrumental to mobilizing an alumni network. It might be at a regional level, for an affinity network or on an alumni board. How are you stewarding this alumni leader as you would a major donor? What steps can you take to ensure they can continue in the captain role? (and not only relegated to serving snacks or fuelling the plane?). 

Students and alumni: Read a bit on why alumni networks are so special from the Alumni Friday archive. Are YOU ready to engage in networks and becoming a future alumni volunteer leader?  

Ready for alumni takeoff, 

Maria 

Photo: Flying around lately! Networking and alumni networks abound as part of the trips - I look forward to connecting with you - hit reply and we can have a virtual meet!