Opinion: What every woman in charity sector leadership needs to know
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Throughout history, women have contributed to improving society and people’s lives. However, often their work and achievements go unnoticed. According to Koda Capital, the representation of women on not-for-profit (NFP) boards (40%) are significantly higher than on ASX200 company boards. However, while the representation of women is growing within the sector, men still dominate leadership roles.
Women are still under-represented at the top, and there is much to be done to make leadership in the charity and NFP sector more reflective of its workforce. However, as the charity sector continues to grow, we are seeing women stepping into these roles, and shining a light on the need for gender balance.
Here is what every woman in NFP leadership needs to know:
BE PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT YOU’RE WORKING ON
When you’re passionate about your work, the accomplishments feel much more rewarding. Doing work you love can feel energising and create a positive framework that fuels productivity. Passion for the industry and the work you do allows for greater success.
BE CLEAR ON WHAT YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE
Be clear about what you want to achieve, celebrate success when you achieve it and learn from not achieving. Picking good people, leading with a clear objective and understanding the interdependence of teams are all important aspects of leadership.
CARE FOR YOUR TEAM
To retain volunteers and staff, you should keep in mind the stress load the work may have on them. Volunteering is often transformative, but depending on the area, it can also be tough. Smaller charities might offer a safe space where sharing experiences is welcome. The most important thing is that volunteers can receive appropriate support, advice, and offload as needed.
It’s also important to make sure that the team sees value in the work they’re doing. We all want to know that what we do matters, and that our time, energy and creativity add up to something important. Help each team member see the difference they make. They’ll be more invested in the work and achieving the big goals.
MAKE THE TOUGH DECISIONS
When put in a leadership role, you will be faced with a multitude of tough decisions. Making considered and strategic decisions about what to start, what to continue, or indeed what to stop, will not only make you a better leader, it will help your teams and your organisation achieve more.
“It’s important to stand strong in what you feel is the right call. Always trust in your judgement and don’t be afraid to make the call others might be too afraid to. Making the tough decisions might just help your organisation grow to its full potential,” added Dr. Davis.
ENSURE THAT COMMUNICATION COMES FIRST
Communication is the key to success in any organisation. As a leader, you should always take time to talk to your staff and volunteers. Asking, listening and reaching out are all essential parts of running a charity or any organisation. Taking the time to ensure that your team is on track and their needs are being met will ensure that they feel supported and continue to perform.
Related: The Shepherd Centre welcomes $6.5 million in funding to improve care for children with hearing loss
Dr Aleisha Davis was appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Shepherd Centre in January 2023. The Shepherd Centre is a leading not-for-profit organisation in Australia dedicated to supporting children with hearing loss and their families. Aleisha joined The Shepherd Centre in 2003 after completing her Masters in Applied Linguistics at Cambridge University in the UK.
