“Breaking the Ice” 313

We have a very important assignment. As commissioners, we know what we need to do. Is this a fair statement? If we don’t…why don’t we? If we do…then what do we do next? Discuss as needed

Commissioner Aims & Methods What are some commissioner “aims”? How about commissioner “methods”? Discuss and list answers on a flip chart or white board

The Commissioner ‘Visit’ What do we want/need to accomplish with these visits/contacts with the unit/unit leaders? Discuss and list answers on a flip chart or white board

What would help? Most likely, someone you know, knows the person you need to meet. Introductions are a huge help. Ideally…the Assistant District Commissioner or District Commissioner will (and should) make that introduction. Any personal experiences to be shared?

However… What if that doesn’t happen? What’s next. You really need to meet that unit leader!

Cold calls can be a challenge. You’ve just taken a new assignment… You haven’t been introduced to the unit leader…are you a: New commissioner? Experienced commissioner? Cold calls can be a challenge. Discuss ways to make cold calling easier, do you know someone else in the unit? Do you have something in common with someone in the unit?

So what do you do? A cold call is contacting a potential customer without an appointment, a referral, or any previous introduction of yourself or company. Most apprehension felt before a cold call is a direct result of not being prepared. Lead discussion of what it means to be prepared.

What are we ‘selling’? Let’s make a list. Why are we making the call? Our goals? What do we want to accomplish? Anticipate all of the possible objections? How would we respond? Ask for answers…write on a flip chart or white board.

Know your style A commissioner’s style is HOW we provide service. What are some attributes of commissioner style? Discuss. List examples of “style” on a flip chart or white board, example may be: Effective communicator – Good listener – Sound judgment – Tactful – Scouting background or quick study – Persistent – but also Patient – Adaptable – Know and practice Scouting ideals – Enthusiastic – Treat everyone with respect, even when they annoy you.

Scenarios Divide the group and examine one of these scenarios and report back to the larger group. After group reports, the larger group will suggest at least one idea from the reports that could serve as a broader guideline for commissioners in other kinds of situations. Hand out the different scenarios

We all believe in the BSA? Can we assume that we do? Yes, most likely we can. Do we all have the same passion for the program? Perhaps. So how do we present ourselves to others? Do we all believe in the Boy Scouts of America? How do we present ourselves, Passionate—but balance with reality. People (and youth) have busy lives, in and out of Scouting. How do we make the most of our time for quality? How does the media affect our mission of Scouting?

New leaders Remember what it was like when you were a new leader? Discuss Can you identify any ways to “break the ice” when you harken back to those days? When I was a new Leader….I….was overwhelmed, didn’t see the whole picture, didn’t know about the program, didn’t know who to ask, didn’t know about training??? Discussion.

“Experienced” leaders Why did I put “experienced” in quotes? What could be some obstacles or challenges to working with an “experienced” unit leader? Experienced is relative. Experience can be seen as a positive as well as a negative. Discuss.

The Unit Self Assessment Tool Purpose: To evaluate progress toward achieving JTE. Assist in annual planning Identify areas of improvement Specific plans for actions needed and who… Schedule follow-up meetings The unit self assessment tool is the measurement of the effectiveness of the methods …who is responsible? The Commissioner and Unit Leader

Areas of focus… JTE (Journey to Excellence) status Advancement Camping/Outdoor program Training YPT (Youth Protection Training)* Participation in district and council events Roundtable attendance/participation YPT is one of the most common reasons for a unit re-charter to fail. Unit leaders must renew YPT every two years.

Confidence! Preparation = confidence and the ability to be successful! Go as a friend of the unit! Know your unit(s), do your homework, and know what to expect. Friendship = Positive Relationship

Thank you for all you do to support unit leaders and help them to be successful. 313