Your guide to becoming a…
Your Organization is a Gem: It Can’t Be Hidden
by Joan Garry
Nonprofit organizations do some extraordinary work, but all too often they hide it. In a world that misunderstands and undervalues the sector, it’s time for nonprofits to own their impact, tell their stories, and change the narrative.
How Displeasing (Some) People Made Me a Better Leader
by Glennda Testone
People-pleasing might feel like a strength until you start leading. In this personal and moving reflection, Glennda Testone, CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab shares how she learned to stop trying to please everyone, make values-based decisions, and lead with authenticity instead of approval.
Can We Still Talk to One Another?
by Joan Garry
In a time when polarization feels impossible to bridge, these two stories remind us that real change begins with simple, human conversations. For nonprofit leaders, I hope this is both a reminder and a call to action.
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not enough money.
too many cooks.
an abundance of passion.
Forget Strength: This Is the Quality Nonprofit Leaders Really Need
by Glennda Testone
Forget about perfection, bravado, and always having the answers. I think the most underrated trait successful nonprofit leaders share is humility, and it may be the key to true, authentic, and sustainable leadership.
10 Questions Every E.D. Candidate Should Ask
by Joan Garry
When a search committee asks, “Do you have any questions for us?” your answers should do more than impress –they should reveal how the board leads, decides, and partners. Here are my top 10 questions to ask (and five to skip) that show you what really matters.
When The Founder Won’t Let Go Of The Wheel
by Joan Garry
Stepping back as a founder is never easy. Even with the best intentions, old habits can creep back in. Here’s what I learned the hard way — and the strategies every founder (and new leader) should use to make the transition work.
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Not Enough Money.
Too Many Cooks.
An Abundance Of Passion.
About Joan Garry
Joan Garry is the Principal of Joan Garry Consulting. Her team works to build and cultivate leadership at the board and staff level in the service of strengthening the nonprofit sector. She is a consultant, author, blogger and a highly sought after public speaker and media spokesperson.
Scrambling for Dollars? It’s Time for a Revenue Reset.
by Glennda Testone
In 2020, a cancelled gala and bike ride wiped out $3 million in expected revenue and forced Glennda Testone to confront the risks of relying too heavily on events. If your organization is one cancellation away from a crisis, now is the time to review your revenue mix.
Workaholic on Vacation: The Follow Up Report. (Confessions Part II)
by Joan Garry
What happens when a self-proclaimed workaholic tries to take a real vacation? Let’s just say there was Wi-Fi, a laptop, and an op-ed draft involved. In this follow-up to my original confession, I share what went right, what went very wrong, and what I learned about truly stepping away.
Confessions of a Workaholic Nonprofit Leader
by Joan Garry
As heavy as the world feels, you need a break. A week off. Beach. Books. Zero meetings. The plan sounds terrific. But, how do you achieve it without checking email from a hammock?
“Her many lessons for non-profit leaders are helpful any time; they are absolutely essential in the midst of crises. This book is a humorous, high-energy read, filled with great stories and profound insights. Highly recommended!”
Michael Watkins.
Bestselling author. The First 90 Days and Your Next Move
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