How to present a new idea without getting lynched!

I’ve been watching the dues committee at a non-profit where I’m a member spend the past year, researching, studying, analyzing, considering, projecting and estimating what impact a new membership dues structure would have on the organization. I’ve also been watching them present this new idea to board members and some of our bigger donors in approximately 2-1/2 minutes. Everyone involved seems so surprised when the proposal is met with resistance, skepticism and even hostility. Honestly, what did they expect?

When the dues committee first took up the idea to change from a flat rate to a fair share dues structure, virtually everyone on the committee reacted the same way…it seemed impossible that it would work. Would people be honest about their income? Would people self select and divulge their income range? Would those that are unable to pay at flat rate levels now pick an appropriate level? Would the more affluent members buy in to this system? Most importantly, would it generate more income for the organization and not less?

It has taken over a year of education to convince each committee member that this change would be good and is much needed for the organization. So I ask the question, why would anyone attempt to present and sell this idea in 2-1/2 minutes?

Here is a 5-Step process to presenting any new idea to an organization. The main objective here is to condense all the learning into a presentation that leads a likely skeptical audience down the same path of learning that the committee took.

1. Situation Overview or Analysis: detailing the current situation and why change is needed. Why is this proposal even being considered?
2. Competitive and/or “Model Organization” Analysis: what are other organizations doing that effectively address the situation? When possible, demonstrate positive impact through case studies.
3. Cite any industry research, write-ups or articles that document any findings pertinent to this issue. What do the experts say and what are the trends relative to this issue?
4. Project out different scenarios such as what is likely to happen if nothing changes or if recommended changes are instituted. At this point it might also be important to discuss alternatives other than the option being proposed…if there are any.
5. Now listen….really listen. Be open to what you learn and willing to apply that learning.

This method of presenting new ideas will not guarantee acceptance and approval. It will simply serve to make sure any new ideas are well understood and carefully considered based on merit and not misperceptions. It will also make sure you’ve done your homework before presenting to your board or membership. Bottom line is that when change is needed, a disciplined approach needs to be undertaken to institute that change. The first step is to successfully present the idea. When you are a non-profit and depend on member, donor and volunteer support for your existence, the way in which you present ideas for change and your skill at turning a skeptical crowd into a friendly one may mean the difference between success and failure.