How Associations Have Embraced “New Power Leadership” All Along

I am excited to share with you our progress toward a brighter, bolder future.

We recognize that as our members’ needs change, we must also change to meet those needs. That’s why we are currently undergoing renovation and transformation to benefit our valued members.

While change can be difficult, we are investing in new technologies, expanding our membership, and developing new education and learning opportunities to help you stay ahead of the curve and achieve your professional goals. We are taking every step to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible and will provide you with regular updates and support throughout the process.

The “new power leadership” concept is gaining traction across many sectors, including associations. TJ Baskerville, Assistant Director: Online Education at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), wrote an outstanding cover story about the concept of new power leadership and how it can be applied to the important work we do in association management. Coined by authors and philanthropists Henry Timms and Jeremy Heimans, new power leadership refers to a leadership style that harnesses participatory and decentralized networks to mobilize people toward a shared goal.

Associations have always relied on the power of community and collaboration to achieve their missions. By empowering members, fostering connections, and adapting to changing needs, associations have created strong networks of support and advocacy. The goal has always been to provide value to members and promote positive change in the industry or field they represent.

For associations, new power leadership means building upon these existing networks and empowering members to become more active and engaged. This can include giving members a say in decision-making, providing opportunities for peer-to-peer learning and collaboration, and embracing transparency in all operations.

At Association Forum, we are committed to this approach, and our new Excelerate program is designed to embody the principles of new power leadership. This program is focused on three main themes: New Power Leadership, Tomorrow is Now, and Intrapreneurship. Each theme is designed to encourage members to take an active role in shaping the future of associations and their industry.

We are excited about the possibilities that new power leadership offers and believe that by leveraging the power of our community and embracing transparency and collaboration, we can continue to provide value to our members and drive positive change in the industry.

As we continue to evolve and adapt to changing needs, we are committed to keeping our members informed and engaged.

While the concept of new power leadership may be new to some, associations have been embracing this approach all along. By building strong networks of support and empowering members to take an active role in shaping the future, associations can drive positive change and stay relevant in an ever-changing world. At Association Forum, we are committed to this approach, and we look forward to continuing to serve our members and drive positive change in the industry.

Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE
President & CEO, Association Forum