Q: The day I’ve been dreading has finally come: I’ve been elected Forum Moderator, and I’m not sure I’m up to the task. Between my company, my family, and other obligations, my schedule is jam-packed. I barely have enough time to attend my Forum meetings, and I just don’t have enough time to dedicate to being a strong Moderator. What do I do?
– Linda R.
A: I’ve been in Forum for decades, and please know that you’re not alone! A lot of Moderator Elects feel the same way you do.
First, let’s look at the positives of being a Moderator. Here are some of my favorites:
- The way you lead your Forum is probably similar to how you lead your own company. This will help you learn, develop, and practice meeting facilitation skills with your Forum that you can apply to your company.
- You can attend Moderator training, where you’ll learn more about leadership, conflict resolution, communication skills, and meeting management.
- You’ll likely have the opportunity to mediate and manage conflict, an important skill in Forum as well as in your company.
- You’ll strengthen the bond with your Forum and with the individual members of your Forum. This happens naturally through increased communication and self-awareness.
- You can ask your Forum for feedback on your leadership skills. They’ll be more likely to give you authentic feedback than your employees. (Use our Moderator Scorecard tool to ask your Forum for feedback.)
Next, here are a few things that might help you feel better about embracing your Moderator role:
- Try to look at it as an opportunity to learn and grow, and to improve your leadership skills.
- Elect the Moderator-Elect now and ask them to assist you with various tasks. Share the load!
- Discuss your concerns with your Forum. That’s what Forum is all about: authenticity and support!
- Ask your Forum mates what their expectations are from you. A 1:1 conversation with each member is a great way to do this.
- Create an annual plan for the year. A few dedicated hours up front will save you time and stress each month.
Worst-case scenario, you can just say “no” to being the Forum Moderator. Explain that you’ve thought it through and you simply cannot take on the role right now. However, keep in mind that everyone is busy running companies and spending time with their families. Claiming that you are busier than everyone else could project that you feel your time is more valuable than theirs. If you decline the role, offer to accept it next year or the year after. This shows that you’re committed to the Forum and to taking on the role at a future time when you’ll be able to do a better job.
Remember that being the Moderator is a privilege that each Forum member will probably experience at some point. Yes, it can be scary—but try to think of it as an opportunity instead of a burden. Your mindset is an important part of your success as Moderator!