Leadership transitions can be emotional, complicated, and far more nuanced than simply stepping away and handing over the reins. Glennda Testone, CEO of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, reflects on what outgoing nonprofit leaders need to understand about letting go, sharing power, and leading their own exit well.
Billionaires claim giving away money is hard. Glennda Testone, CEO Nonprofit Leadership Lab has thoughts…And she shares an inspiring story about a thrift store in Enid, Oklahoma, that is demonstrating a very different story of generosity.
I said no at the checkout counter – and I’m not alone. Even nonprofit leaders hesitate to donate at that moment. Here’s what that reveals about checkout fundraising and how nonprofits can turn more of those No’s into easy Yes’s.
If you’re constantly reacting to the next crisis, you’re not leading – you’re surviving. And survival mode doesn’t build organizational resilience. Let’s dive into what prepared nonprofit leaders do differently when they know change is on their horizon.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Charisma might get someone in the door but it won’t keep them there. When boards prioritize charm over qualifications, they risk overlooking the leader their organization truly needs. Glennda Testone shares five characteristics to look for when hiring a leader.
When everything felt like it might fall apart—cash flow crises, public firestorms, uncharted leadership moments—it wasn’t just my staff or instincts that saved me. It was my board. When engaged strategically and treated like true partners, your board can be your greatest source of strength, insight, and support. Here’s how to activate your board like the future depends on it.
Nonprofit leaders are tired of defending their work against wild myths and public perception. Nonprofit organizations are the backbone of our social progression. It’s time to tell the truth about the impact of nonprofits.
In a season when nonprofits are under pressure from all sides, your gala speech is more than just a formality—it’s a moment of leadership. Use your voice to educate, inspire, and call your audience to action when your organization needs it most.