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GETTING
YOUR STUDENT ORGANIZATION TO UNDERSTAND THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE ADVISOR
The
organization-advisor relationship is not a one-way street, with the advisor
doing all of the giving and the organization doing all of the taking. The
organization has some definite responsibilities to its advisor. Here are some
tips to guide you in your advisory capacity:
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Establish
a clear understanding between yourself and the organization as to the
advisor’s role and function.
Set up a time to discuss this at length with the leadership. Talk
about the purpose of the group and its needs; determine what you have to
offer as an advisor, then agree on the nature of the relationship. Review
the relationship periodically and encourage the organization to let you know
how you may advise the group better.
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It
is the responsibility of the organization to communicate its needs to the
advisor.
Advisors should be willing to be involved with the organization, but they
should not intrude and “force the hand” of the group.
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Establish
lines of communication.
Find the best way to keep the flow of information moving smoothly between
yourself and group members. Check your schedule for times you can meet with
the organization. Tell the organization what information you, as an advisor,
would like to receive on a regular basis (e.g., meeting notices, minutes,
event announcements, etc.) and check to see it is sent. Remind the
organization that there are many ways to communicate: face to face, in
writing, by voice mail or e-mail.
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It’s
OK to say NO.
You have other responsibilities such as family or relationship, job, and
financial concerns that do not always permit undivided attention to the
organization. Organizations can extend an invitation, but should not be
offended if the advisor must say no thanks.
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The
advisor should let the organization know what type of talents he or she can
offer.
Recognize that as the advisor you are a resource person with a wealth of
expertise. Offer opinions, advise, and creative ideas.
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An
advisor is an integral part of the organization but not a member.
The advisor’s job is to coach and guide the organization in its function,
not to perform tasks for the group.
HOW
THE ADVISOR CAN ASSIST THE ORGANIZATION
In
addition to the above listed roles and responsibilities, an advisor can assist
an organization in many ways:
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Maintenance
functions:
the advisor can help maintain the existence of the student organization by
providing continuity with past history and traditions. Such activities may
include consulting on University policy, serving as a role model, arbitrating
group conflicts, and keeping files on past organizational functions.
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Group
growth function:
the advisor can improve the operation and effectiveness of the group and
help it progress toward its goals. Such activities might include: teaching
the techniques of good leadership and fellowship, coaching the officers in
the principles of good organizational and administrative practice,
developing self-discipline and responsibility among members, teaching the
elements of effective group operation, developing plans and procedures for
action, keeping the group focused on its goals, and stimulating or even
initiating activities and programs.
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Program
content function:
the advisor can question the educational rationale for the organization’s
existence and lead its members into activities that will contribute to their
intellectual and social development. Such activities might include
introducing new program ideas, helping group members practice skills and
concepts learned in the classroom, pointing out new perspectives and
directions, and supplying expert knowledge and insights.
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Networking
Opportunities:
the advisor can help provide opportunities for organization members to
interact with different people in their field of interest, helping them to
develop new contacts for possible future careers. Such opportunities to
network might include identifying guest speakers, field trips or site
visits, or attending conferences related to their area of interest.
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