Leading a non-profit organization of volunteers challenges one to bring out the best in others. Having led many groups from 20 to 3,000 members, I've developed some insights on why people volunteer for positions of leadership. Here are the top ten which may help you approach people with their "hot button" in mind.

Ten Reasons People Volunteer for Leadership Positions
10. To learn more about the parent organization.
9. To advance their own ideas.
8. To serve as a role model.
7. To experience a greater sense of belonging.
6. To be "in the know."
5. To gain "supervisory" experience.
4. To network with senior level people.
3. To have more influence on the future of the organization.
2. To develop or hone leadership skills.
1. To associate with people who make things happen!

Copyright 1996 Jo Condrill
May be reprinted if attribution is given.