Szlachetna Paczka - leadership experience

I have pledged to give follow-ups on how I am doing in my new role, being a manager to more than 20 people for the first time in my life.

In mid-July I took part in a two-day workshop where I could hone my skills (such assertion implies I have already had some). Soon later I met with fellow volunteers who had decided to carry on with Szlachetna Paczka to discuss the ideas on how our area should function and how they would support me.

For a long time I had not been fond of managing people, especially I feared dealing with intractable persons. The company of friends who I can count on persuaded me to overcome my premonitions. After all, if I am to move ahead professionally, I might not end up as an expert only, but with time I would need to begin to lead other employees. But since managing a team is a school of hard knocks, it seemed an excellent idea to acquire some competencies outside the ruthless world of a corporation.

As a leader I strive to be a partner for my volunteers, rather than a boss. For the sake of my hygiene and to avert excessive workload, I delegate as many tasks as possible and I trust my team members (i.e. hold my horses in terms of controlling them).

With respect to the time spent handling the Paczka, it turns out to be more time-consuming then I expected. My role involves a lot of conceptual work, being available to volunteers who want to consult me and hundreds of clicks in IT systems, essential to keep the venture going.

Right now, after the first area meeting held this Wednesday and ahead of first meetings with families enrolled, I am glad I have taken up this challenge and happy to be in charge of such wonderful team, though some more attentive members I might require a lot of patience.

I will keep you posted on the developments on the Paczka front in late October.