Ten Tips for Being a Better Patrol Leader
What does it take to be a good patrol leader? Here are 10 keys to effective leadership.
1.
Be a good communicator.
You do not have to have a commanding voice to be a good leader, but you
must
be willing to step out front with an effective “Let’s go!” A good leader
knows how to get and give information so that everyone understands.
2.
Keep your word. Don’t
make promises you can’t keep.
3.
Be fair to all A good leader
shows no favorites. Don’t allow friendships to stand in the way of being fair to
all members of your patrol.
4.
Be flexible. Everything won’t
always go as planned. Be prepared to shift to “Plan B” when “Plan A” doesn’t
work.
5.
Be organized. At patrol
meetings, record who is responsible for each task, and have the duty roster
filled out prior to going on a camp-out.
6.
Delegate. Some leaders
assume the job will not get done unless they do it themselves. Most people like
to be challenged with a task. Let them try doing things they haven’t tried
before.
7.
Set the example.
Whatever you do, your patrol members are likely to do the same. Having a
cheerful attitude can help keep everyone in good spirits.
8.
Be consistent.
Nothing is more confusing than a leader who is one way one moment and the
opposite a short time later. If your patrol knows what to expect from you, they
will more likely respond positively to your leadership.
9.
Give praise. Often,
“Nice job!” is all the praise necessary to make a Scout feel he is making a
worthwhile contribution
10.
Ask for help. When confronted with a situation you don’t know how to handle, ask
someone with
more experience
for some advice and direction.
Many thanks to Troop 1Conestoga District, Greater Pittsburg Council