Finding a good Club Advisor can be tough. While we don't require you to have an advisor to run your Club, your school might. But don't worry, we're here to help! Below are a few of the benefits and challenges to finding an advisor. Use these to help you in your search and to help you ask the right questions of potential candidates.
Benefits to having an advisor
- Advisors are great to bounce ideas off of and make great suggestions for helping you run your Club more smoothly. Find someone who has been through the Club process before and knows what works and what doesn't in your community.
- If you need to make connections with people in your community such as local businesses, you may be able to find an advisor who is highly esteemed and has good relationships that can help your Club.
- If you find someone who is interested in being an advisor, chances are they are super passionate about the cause, and you can never have enough people that want to help you accomplish your goals!
- Advisors can serve as the liaison between you and your school administration. If you ever have trouble with school rules or red tape, it's good to have someone in the staff to back you up.
- If you're planning on hosting after-school or off-campus events to volunteer or bond with your club members, your school may require an adult supervisor.
- If you ever run out of ideas (and you've checked out all the Do Something campaigns and project postings), an advisor can be a great source of inspiration and connections.
- As you grow and learn from leading your Club, it's great to have someone witness what you're doing who can later write you a letter of recommendation.
- An advisor can help you set goals that are attainable and meet your school's rules.
- As you're thinking of succession planning, remember that an advisor can help in the transition of officers and to make sure that you don't repeat any mistakes over the years.
- You might need an advisor when you need official documents signed to use school funds or facilities.
Potential challenges to having an advisor
- The advisor may want to control everything and lead the group themselves. Remind them that this is a student-led Club and that they would be most helpful serving as a coach or mentor.
- If you have an advisor, he or she might limit your dreams and tell you "no". Try to get an advisor who is open to letting you try big projects, but at the same time be reasonable - make sure your goal is achievable.
- Your advisor might be too busy to attend all your events and meetings. When picking an advisor, try to get one who doesn't already advise other clubs. If all the adults in your community are really busy, consider getting 2 advisors.
- You might not get along with your advisor. If that happens, thank them for their help and get a new advisor! They'll understand you guys just weren't the best match.
If you consider the benefits and potential challenges above, you'll be sure to find an awesome advisor who will help take your Club to the next level!
