JUNIOR LEADER HANDBOOK "THERE ARE SOME LEADERS IN THE TROOP WHICH ARE ELECTED...SOME ARE APPOINTED" You never know when you'll be called upon to step into a 'Leadership' position. You may or may NOT see it coming. There are times when adults need to promote a Scout to a Staff or Patrol Leader position if the situation calls for the move and there is no time to prepare for it. Adult leaders are constantly reviewing your performance as Scouts. That's why it's a good thing to learn that THERE'S A RIGHT TIME AND PLACE FOR EVERYTHING. Let me share with you a great quote I borrowed from www.kudu.net that I think is important to stress to your Training group any time you feel it appropriate: While Scouts should not be expected to 'parade' their services, it would be helpful if Scout Leaders, parents, and others would encourage boys in the doing of Good Turns, and recognize the difference between normal household and other chores, and actual Good Turns. Selfishness is almost a universal evil. Certainly, it is overcome by the Scout Program, which is based upon the development of service for others, and the Daily Good Turn is an important factor in the development of a habit of service and attitude of mind which offset a tendency to selfishness.
Two days before we go, we take both Patrols shopping for food. We guide them a little bit but mostly let them do it. (We did have to step in once to stop one group from purchasing a prepared shrimp platter they wanted for a snack). Originally, we told them that the cost of the weekend depends on them on what they want to spend. Now, we limit it to about per person and give them more of a suggested menu. Remember we're dealing with 12 and 13 yr olds and although they're capable of a lot they still need guidance. We think it's important to take the time in one of your Jr. Leader Training classes to review the position of Troop Guide and use that as an opportunity to show them how they can help build the Troop and make it even stronger. In our case, our Troop went through a rapid growth spurt, and following the formula below helped us keep the new boys by going out of our way to make them feel comfortable and welcome. You can use the information below to teach this concept:
REGARDING NEW SCOUTS: IF YOU DON'T FEEL WELCOME, YOU PROBABLY WON'T LAST LONG | |
POWER OF PERSUASION is critical in Leadership It's important for an effective leader to be an effective persuader. Every day each of us engages - both consciously & unconsciously in trying to change someone's mind. In communicating with friends or family, this act may be as simple as 'asking for what you want'.Persuading begins with listening & keen observation. Focus on the other person's wants & needs & tailor your conversation to help them achieve their goals. A healthy dose of emotion, conviction & sincerity, coupled with a logical argument built around the other person's needs & desires will stand the best chance of carrying the day. Make good 'eye contact' & don't clutter your message with "ums" & "uhs". Use relaxed gestures, smile & stand up straight. Strong & consistent communication skills will give you an excellent shot of being heard all the way through even if the person you're speaking to is initially opposed to the ideas you are presenting. Sometimes, even after your best effort at persuading, the person may tell you they won't change their mind. Re-state your point & re-visit the issue in a few days. Tenacity is often the 'secret weapon' of influencing other people. (Trainers...ask the group this question) "How many of you have ever gotten your way with your parents even after they said NO"?
| G.E.A.R. - what does it mean? Not long ago, there was a boy in our Troop who received a phone call telling him he was going to be the SPL for summer camp (most of our regular Staff wouldn't be going that year - that can happen)...he drew a deep breath and said, "WOW"! A little overwhelmed by the idea but willing to give it a try. We believe his participation in JLT gave him more confidence & ended up doing a pretty good job. The Scoutmaster reviewed his performance throughout the week & let him know what he was doing right and wrong. Here's where G.E.A.R. comes in: G.et into your job E.xpect the unexpected A.ccept criticism R.eflect on your training ...sounds a lot like life, doesn't it? PEER PRESSURE & TROOP LEADERSHIP Remember to STAY FOCUSED ON YOUR LEADERSHIP POSITION. |