The following contains an outline of an agenda and a set of resources your leadership team can use for a series of strategic planning meetings. You may use this guide to set vision, assess your team’s strengths and weaknesses, and plan for your chapter, especially before the beginning of the school year.
Part 1: Vision and Goals
(45 mins)
Open
If you are doing this as a group, take time to do an ice-breaker or fun game as you start.
Pray
Open by spending time in prayer together. Pray for the upcoming semester, for this planning time, and for those we are working to send rescue and protection to around the world.
Consider adding time for silent reflection and prayer as well. If possible, there could be time for extended stillness and solitude set before this planning time starts.
Review IJM’s mission, vision and approach in the . As a chapter leadership team:
Reflect on your personal vision for being part of this larger mission and your chapter’s role in that. Part 2: You and Your Team
(1 hr)
Read individually this brief article on different types of teams compared with sports teams: Discuss together or with other chapters planning with you:
What kind of team do you have? Have you recently transitioned from one type of team to another? How does this affect your strategy? As a chapter leadership team, discuss:
How are you doing as a team, relationally, emotionally, etc? How can you ensure that you don’t burn out this semester? Set meeting cadence
How often do you want to meet as a team? Recommended meeting structure: Monthly leadership team meetings (when not planning an event) Incorporate prayer, learning, planning and team building Part 3: Your Campus
(1 hr)
Engagement—Discuss as a chapter leadership team:
How is your current membership/interest? How do you manage/connect with them? How could you improve this connection? Outreach & Recruitment
What is your plan this year for recruiting new members? How do you plan to market your events throughout the year? Do you have partner student organizations on campus and are there opportunities for further partnership? Develop new leaders: The success of any chapter depends on the ability to transition leadership. Every year, try to bring 1-2 freshman onto your leadership team. You may review as you discuss this section. Funding your Chapter
Research your university’s grant application or funding and budgeting process. ALWAYS request more than you need – this ensures you’ll at least get something to help. If needed, brainstorm ideas on how to raise money for your chapter: Charge a small amount in dues to become a Member Part 4: Next Semester
(30 mins)
Closing Steps:
Create a shared calendar or spreadsheet for your chapter that includes important dates like events set by IJM HQ, possible event dates for your chapter, and important dates for your campus (including activities fairs, breaks and finals). Decide how you will communicate and plan important dates. Summarize and review any upcoming action steps for your team members. Pray together for the year!
Strategic Planning
