By Ben Gula, @ben.gula | Neuqua Valley High School, IL
As DECA ICDC rapidly approaches, the DECA competition season is unfortunately getting closer to an end. Whether you came home with a medal or simply a camera roll full of memories, every DECA member is guaranteed at least one reward: leadership experience.
With the current chapter leaders moving on to their next steps, now is the time to identify future leaders who will drive your chapter to success.
Here are a few tips to find the right fit for the upcoming chapter leadership team.
Create a Transparent and Objective Application Process
Every chapter member deserves an equal opportunity to showcase their passion for leadership and DECA. By setting firm, easy-to-understand application guidelines, the “popularity contest” stigma will be removed, and members will be motivated to step forward.
Consider some of these common application methods and materials:
- Attendance at Chapter Meetings and Events
- Written Application and Interview Questions
- “Why do you want to serve in this specific position?”
- “What goals and strategies do you have to improve our chapter?”
- “How have you involved yourself in our DECA chapter?”
- List of Personal Strengths and Weaknesses
- Ex: Digital Marketing Experience = Strong for Marketing Position
- Ex: No Financial Knowledge or Experience = Weak for Finance Position
- Business Teacher Letters of Recommendation
- DECA Competition Knowledge and Experience
It is essential to keep personal biases and nepotism out of the selection process. To shape a successful DECA chapter, its leaders should be chosen for their meaningful experience and vision, rather than for their friendship.
Find Members Driven by Impact, Not Just a Title
With rising internship opportunities and college applications, gaining a DECA leadership position may be seen as a personal advantage, rather than an opportunity to lead chapter impact. To identify chapter members who are looking to serve others rather than themselves, ask them to develop their own leadership mission pitch by creating new initiatives and explaining the “why” behind them. A true leader and their intentions will finally shine.
Additionally, it is important to recognize how they have stepped up in the past year, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or participating even without a formal position.
Lastly, ask them one final question: “What does DECA mean to you?”
If DECA has changed their life, try to find out how they will put in the effort to ensure it changes someone else's life too.
Finding the perfect fit leadership team can be emotionally taxing, yet so rewarding. No matter their role, every DECA member has the opportunity and potential to make a meaningful impact within their chapter, their local community and beyond. All it takes is taking the initial step and embracing the challenges and rewards of being a leader.
