“I just completed 20 years of service leading a nonprofit, and there was no recognition. It was radio silence.”

If I had a dollar for every time I heard some version of this statement, I’d be a wealthy woman.

And I’d be lying if I said that complaint doesn’t tug at my heartstrings.

It does.

I was an Executive Director for one nonprofit for over 30 years. The dedication it takes to lead a nonprofit is indescribable. Only those who have given their lives to it understand.

But here’s the kicker…

You’re the leader.

During your 20-year tenure, if you didn’t establish and burgeon a culture of recognition… how did you expect to be recognized when it was your turn?

You’re the model. You set the tone.

They followed your lead.

So let's flip it around...

If you already know you eventually want to be recognized for your length of service, for your leadership, for your skills and abilities...

Start creating that culture in your organization right now.

Promote recognition in your shop.

Deliver recognition in your shop.

And here's a little bonus...

One side effect of delivering recognition is happier, more appreciative, more satisfied, and more willing Staff and Board members.

Results like that might even be more valuable to you than being recognized for your own 20 years of service.

Nonprofit Leaders: Recognition spreads like a virus. All you need to do is foster it.

Sheree Allison merges the worlds of fundraising, marketing, and leadership combined with an entrepreneurial spirit to train and develop nonprofit leaders who are committed to building a world class organization.  Check out her book “The Nonprofit Book of Wisdom - One Executive Director Who Couldn’t Be Swayed” and her weekly column at www.shereeallison.com.