Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits - Free leadership and management training for nonprofit leaders worldwide.https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managing-in-turbulent-times/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managing-in-turbulent-times/During these times of turbulence and uncertainty in Washington, and around the world, nonprofit leaders and nonprofit staff can feel buffeted by forces beyond their control.Fri, 29 May 2026 11:44:47 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mentors-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mentors-2/People often ask me about my mentors. I didn’t have a single mentor — I believe it’s not practical to attach yourself to just one role model or manager.Wed, 20 May 2026 15:05:10 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-people-look-outward-look-inward/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-people-look-outward-look-inward/When I saw younger employees focused on building their resumés, my reaction was not to worry that they might be thinking of finding work elsewhere.Fri, 15 May 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-urge-to-show-results/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-urge-to-show-results/Sometimes, when a leader steps into a new role, they feel pressure to demonstrate that their work is making a tangible difference.Fri, 08 May 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-everything-is-a-priority-nothing-is-a-priority/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-everything-is-a-priority-nothing-is-a-priority/The problem is rarely a shortage of good ideas. It's more likely a shortage of discipline about which ideas to pursue.Sat, 02 May 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-comes-to-chicagos-west-side/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-comes-to-chicagos-west-side/LaShone Kelly organized a half-day leadership workshop for fifteen high school students, demonstrating a novel application of Applied Wisdom principles.Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/from-the-field-to-the-court-how-court-sense-shapes-great-leadership/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/from-the-field-to-the-court-how-court-sense-shapes-great-leadership/Guest newsletter from colleague Jorge Titinger on how athletic instincts from the soccer field parallel the leadership principles behind Develop Court Sense.Sat, 18 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born/Leadership is a skill that can be developed. Every person is capable of improving their leadership and management abilities.Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders-are-not-born-2/These are challenging times for nonprofits, and across the social sector. During challenging times, strong leadership is essential. I plan to continue to make the topic of leadership a key focus of thSat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/atomic-habits-and-the-nonprofit-sector/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/atomic-habits-and-the-nonprofit-sector/James Clear's Atomic Habits offers valuable insights for nonprofit leaders seeking to strengthen their management capabilities through small, consistent improvements.Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reflecting-on-international-womens-day-in-2026/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reflecting-on-international-womens-day-in-2026/The theme of this year's International Women's Day was 'Give to Gain' — that could have been right out of the Applied Wisdom playbook.Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/trust-is-built-from-the-inside-out/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/trust-is-built-from-the-inside-out/Trust isn't something you declare. It's something you build. You can't earn trust externally if you haven't built it within your own organization first.Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ancestral-land-returned-after-175-years/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ancestral-land-returned-after-175-years/Last month, the Washoe Tribe purchased over 10,000 acres of ancestral land north of Lake Tahoe, California. It’s land they were pushed off during the California Gold Rush, 175 years ago. Now it’s theiSat, 14 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/practical-hiring-tips-for-nonprofits/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/practical-hiring-tips-for-nonprofits/We’ve been partnering with the Miller Center for nearly a year now, focusing on enhancing leadership development programming for social entrepreneurs addressing critical global challenges. Linda KeegaFri, 06 Mar 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/volunteers-and-the-nonprofit-job-to-be-done/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/volunteers-and-the-nonprofit-job-to-be-done/Let’s talk about an important group that we too often overlook in our discussions of nonprofits: our volunteers. Famed management guru Clayton Christensen has a thesis that can help us appreciate voluSat, 28 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/understanding-your-true-impact/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/understanding-your-true-impact/Best intentions and a strong sense of purpose drive the nonprofit sector. But neither will tell you whether you’re actually making a difference. Too many organizations measure activity—how many mealsFri, 20 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-for-small-nonprofits/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-for-small-nonprofits/I’ve written before about my friend Hank Riggs. Hank oversaw all fundraising efforts at Stanford University and was enormously successful with his efforts. I’ve shared a list of eighteen of Hank’s “fuSat, 14 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/absorb-chaos-project-calm-give-hope/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/absorb-chaos-project-calm-give-hope/I don’t know who first used this phrase, but I think it is so valuable for the situation we now find ourselves in. Absorb Chaos, Project Calm, Give Hope. These are deeply unsettling times. Politics haSat, 07 Feb 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/never-stop-collecting-great-tips-and-quotations/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/never-stop-collecting-great-tips-and-quotations/I continually collect articles, lists, notes, and ideas I pick up from reading, listening to speakers, or just talking with people each day. I urge everyone to do that as a habit. We evolve over our lSat, 31 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/between-your-heart-and-your-mind/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/between-your-heart-and-your-mind/Nonprofit leaders tend to be idea people. They see problems and imagine solutions. They meet a potential partner and envision a collaboration. They attend a conference and return buzzing with all theSat, 24 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-thoughtful-management-model-for-nonprofits/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-thoughtful-management-model-for-nonprofits/When I worked at Applied Materials we hired a management consultant named Dr. Ichak Adizes. The author of nearly 30 books, Adizes is an original, full of insights on organizational development and lifFri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2026/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2026/After decades of leading organizations both large and small, I’ve found that some of my most powerful management insights aren’t the ones that are most often quoted. As you think about strengthening ySat, 10 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-year-is-full-of-opportunity/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-year-is-full-of-opportunity/With the new year just behind us, it’s a good time to focus on opportunity. A nonprofit leader establishes opportunity for their organization by pointing it in the right direction and hiring the peoplSat, 03 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces-2/It’s been said that the one constant is change. A couple of weeks ago I talked about the cyclical environments that nonprofits work within. 2025 was a tough year for many nonprofits: How can we startSat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-3/Financial success and independence are powerful motivators. But as we enter this season of reflection, I want to set a reminder that achieving professional success and pursuing the greater good aren'tSat, 20 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-a-cyclical-environment/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-a-cyclical-environment/As we approach year-end, the end of ​a​ particularly brutal ​12-months, I’m reminded of the ever-evolving cycles that all organizations face. Just like for-profits, nonprofits live in cyclical environSun, 14 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reduce-stress-by-focusing-on-top-priorities/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/reduce-stress-by-focusing-on-top-priorities/I want to continue this week to talk about coping with stress at nonprofits. There are few things more stressful than having a dozen to-dos on your desk, and three staff members outside your door lookSat, 06 Dec 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coping-with-stress-at-year-end/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coping-with-stress-at-year-end/This has been the most stressful year for nonprofits since the Covid crisis. The current social and political environment makes burnout more of a concern than perhaps ever before. Everyone is searchinSat, 29 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-3/Next Thursday we will celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States, and it prompts me to think more about giving. I’ve been deeply engaged in philanthropy for more than three decades. Friends and colleSat, 22 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives-2/Last week I talked about how important it is to hire excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. I’ve got a tip about how to make great hires. In addition to theSun, 16 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people-2/An exceptional culture will always attract great employees. When I was getting my MBA at Cornell, business schools were not paying that much attention to the techniques of effective hiring. FortunatelSun, 09 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ceos-at-for-profits-and-ceos-at-nonprofits/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ceos-at-for-profits-and-ceos-at-nonprofits/It’s unfortunate that sometimes impatient business people get involved with nonprofits and immediately bark out a list of ways nonprofits need to be “run more like a business.” I have too much respectSat, 01 Nov 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes-2/I’ve been thinking a lot about the challenges of decentralized decision-making. Here’s one aspect. Most start-up organizations, including new nonprofits, resemble a wheel with a hub (the founders andSun, 26 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/helping-nonprofits-do-the-whole-job/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/helping-nonprofits-do-the-whole-job/Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we've seen significant growth in the gig economy. It's having a major impact on how American businesses operate. The gig economy can be beneficial for both parties. CompanSat, 18 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/court-sense-and-the-changing-seasons/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/court-sense-and-the-changing-seasons/Just as seasons change, nonprofit leaders must develop the court sense to anticipate shifts and adapt their strategies accordingly.Sat, 11 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/who-owns-the-monkey-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/who-owns-the-monkey-2/Last week I considered the difference between an organizational culture characterized by accountability, versus one characterized by a victim mindset. In an accountable culture, employees are comfortaSat, 04 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims-2/When things aren’t going well there is a tendency for staff to personalize their anxiety and frustration and create “villains” and “victims.” This is an extremely important distinction and it’s not siThu, 25 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b/I like to remind people of what I call “The Cost of Perfect Information.” Time is wasted and opportunities are lost when people become fixated on having perfect information, rather than appreciating tSat, 20 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/getting-the-dailies/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/getting-the-dailies/Many unproductive attitudes can infect a company that does not pay close attention to its culture and values, both daily, and for the long term. I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connecSun, 14 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-tone-at-the-top/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-tone-at-the-top/Nonprofit boards have many responsibilities. Top among these is overseeing a healthy internal culture within the organization. While a board may have limited exposure to day-to-day operations, it needSat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-3/If you want to build a strong and productive culture, or you want to rebuild a failing culture, there are three elements that must be handled properly, and in order: Structure, Processes and People. TSat, 30 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/how-to-change-a-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/how-to-change-a-culture/When things are going well, it’s easy to take your organization’s culture for granted. When things aren’t going well, managers will often focus on some quality that they believe is deficient. They migSat, 23 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-in-action-students-reflect-on-organizational-leadership/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/applied-wisdom-in-action-students-reflect-on-organizational-leadership/This post is from our Applied Wisdom team member, Kathleen King. Nonprofit executive Teresa Chapman teaches a course on Organizational Development and Change and has found a way to bring Applied WisdoSat, 16 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/culture-matters/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/culture-matters/Culture matters. It’s a core organizational asset for nonprofits. The role of leadership is to build a strong organizational culture based on a nonprofit’s purpose, mission, vision, and values. You waSat, 09 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strengths/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strengths/I want to continue on the theme of collaboration. Last week I looked at the importance of helping partners succeed. But how do you choose an organization to collaborate with? Collaborations work bestSat, 02 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-partners-success-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-partners-success-2/When you are engaged in an effort that demands collaboration, you must treat your partner’s issues as paramount and do everything you can to resolve friction and help your partner succeed. You cannotSat, 26 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-collaboration-a-success-story/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-collaboration-a-success-story/The Sierra Nevada is the longest, unbroken mountain range in North America, a 400-mile-long expanse of granite peaks, deep forests, and sparkling lakes. Last weekend my wife Becky and I had the pleasuFri, 18 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully-2/When I review my proudest achievements, both in business and in the nonprofit sector, collaboration with partners was almost always part of a successful outcome. A lot of senior executives talk aboutThu, 10 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/on-independence-day-reflecting-on-the-statue-of-liberty/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/on-independence-day-reflecting-on-the-statue-of-liberty/At the end of June 1986, nearly 40 years ago, I sent a letter to the staff of Applied Materials, where I served as president. I’d like to quote from that letter. I think it still has relevance today,Sat, 05 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-4/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-4/The never-ending dysfunction in Washington highlights the importance of effective problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficult decisions toward solving a range of problems. HFri, 27 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-3/Readers of my newsletter and of my books know all too well that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character ofSat, 21 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions-2/Continuing on the theme of staffing from my previous newsletter, I want to share some insights prompted by an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a few years ago titled “Nine NonobviSat, 14 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-3/When a nonprofit struggles it’s usually not because the staff are weak. It’s more likely the result of inadequate leadership and poor planning. Most employees are just as savvy as any management consuSat, 07 Jun 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-truisms/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-truisms/Two weeks ago I talked about how Washington has added uncertainty to nonprofit fundraising in an already challenging environment. This week I’d like to share some fundraising insights and advice fromSat, 31 May 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/partnering-for-greater-social-impact/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/partnering-for-greater-social-impact/Today, I’m happy to share that Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits is partnering with Santa Clara University’s Miller Center for Global Impact. This three-year partnership will focus on enhancing leadershipSat, 24 May 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-an-ever-growing-challenge/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-an-ever-growing-challenge/In my March 9 newsletter I talked about how the uncertainty of government funding is affecting nonprofits. Fundraising is already an everyday priority. And then, with all of the turmoil in Washington,Sat, 17 May 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/clear-direction-is-a-service/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/clear-direction-is-a-service/Guest newsletter by Leslie Hansen, Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits In last week's newsletter Jim Morgan discussed how messages about organizational values, strategic priorities, and your confidence in ySat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leaders-repeat-and-reinforce/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leaders-repeat-and-reinforce/When coaching nonprofit managers I consistently emphasize the same core management principles. This constant repetition is deliberate. If you’ve read Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector and followSat, 03 May 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead-2/I’ve often noted that one of the most valuable experiences a young, ambitious person can have is to work for excellent managers. And the reverse can be equally true: one of the most valuable experiencSat, 26 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-crisis-at-american-universities/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-crisis-at-american-universities/I have been reflecting on the recent funding cuts to universities by the Trump administration, including $1 billion for Cornell University, $790 million for Northwestern University, and $9 billion forSat, 12 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-3/Two weeks ago I considered one of the long-standing myths of leadership, that “leaders are born, not made.” As I wrote, I believe that for most people it’s well within our grasp to learn how to lead aSat, 05 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-3/Here are a few mission statements from prominent nonprofit organizations: The mission of the American Heart Association is “To advance the health of all individuals and communities.” Make a Wish AmeriSat, 29 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-bring-diverse-perspectives/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-bring-diverse-perspectives/Successful boards are built on a core of experienced professionals who share your mission and bring unique skills, such as in planning, fundraising, and finance. Beyond that, the idea of having a setSat, 15 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-uncertainty-of-government-funding/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-uncertainty-of-government-funding/The recent pause on federal grants by the Trump administration was a shock to the nonprofit sector. The incident put a spotlight on how important federal funding is to nonprofits, and how ill-equippedSat, 08 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-respect-and-trust-insights-from-our-interviews/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-respect-and-trust-insights-from-our-interviews/I so often talk about respect and trust in my writing and my discussions with the nonprofit community. I’m always interested in how nonprofit leaders think about this core cultural value. In preparingSat, 01 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-greatness-insights-from-jim-collins/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-greatness-insights-from-jim-collins/Jim Collins, who wrote the influential business book Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap... and Others Don’t, also published a short booklet specifically about the nonprofits and the sociaSat, 22 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/do-you-wander-off/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/do-you-wander-off/Guest newsletter by Leslie Hansen, Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits The top management team of a large organization attended leadership training in which participants worked with horses in some intense aSat, 15 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-fruits-of-collaboration/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-fruits-of-collaboration/When I first began collecting and sharing leadership tips, I never imagined the reach they might have. This month, a free online certificate course based on my booklet, Applied Wisdom for the NonprofiSat, 08 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-los-angeles-fires/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-los-angeles-fires/As fires once again ravage the Los Angeles area, I’m grateful to recognize the important role that nonprofit organizations are playing in helping with the immediate disaster, as well as their commitmeSat, 25 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teaching-with-applied-wisdom/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teaching-with-applied-wisdom/A member of my team noticed that we had received multiple orders for Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector from a university address and took the initiative to learn more and to see if we could assiSat, 18 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2025/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-ways-to-be-a-better-leader-in-2025/After decades of leading organizations both large and small, I’ve found that some of my most powerful management insights aren’t the ones that are most often quoted. As you think about strengthening yFri, 10 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-3/When your focus is mainly on solving problems, it shapes your attitude toward new ideas and how to put them to work. You want to go beyond pondering problems to imagining solutions. It’s not just a “cSat, 04 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/artificial-intelligence-and-the-nonprofit-community/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/artificial-intelligence-and-the-nonprofit-community/In Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits I describe an important leadership practice that I call “Court Sense” — watching for and responding to changes in the driving forces that might impact you and your orgSat, 14 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/young-leaders-describe-their-leadership-tips/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/young-leaders-describe-their-leadership-tips/I hope that you had a fine Thanksgiving break. I work with our team at Applied Wisdom in supporting and equipping nonprofit leaders and managers. We encourage them to reflect on their own leadership wFri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-3/As we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday I'm reminded that nonprofits don’t serve just their constituents, but that they're also grounded in another commonwealth, their local community. At Applied MatSat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem-2/Nonprofits are founded to tackle tough issues and to solve challenging problems. But sometimes a problem is too large to be tackled head on, and a nonprofit can freeze up, uncertain of how they can beSat, 23 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-bridges-model-of-change/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-bridges-model-of-change/This week’s election was emotionally challenging for everyone, no matter which candidates or positions you were supporting. The outcome for some has been positive. For others it has been unsettling, iSat, 09 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-3/A decision accomplishes nothing except creating momentum in a particular direction. Deciding to get married, for example, does not create a long and happy marriage — it just sets the possibility in moSat, 02 Nov 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-return-to-cayuga-indiana/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-return-to-cayuga-indiana/In late September my wife Becky and I were able to visit my hometown of Cayuga, Indiana, on our way back from a trip to the East Coast. It was my first time back in many years. Cayuga is just west ofSat, 26 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/strategy-action/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/strategy-action/Implementation is partly about an attitude: Just do it. It’s when strategy meets a bias toward action and thoughtful completion. People tend to get comfortable with process and reports. The great valuSat, 19 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bringing-my-team-into-the-conversation/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bringing-my-team-into-the-conversation/Over the last 5-plus years I’ve been able to build a wonderful team that helps me every day to get the word out about Applied Wisdom for Nonprofits. I credit them by name in the booklet, including mySat, 05 Oct 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/eleven-simple-rules-for-working-with-others/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/eleven-simple-rules-for-working-with-others/Most of my career in high tech and in the nonprofit sector has centered around Northern California, home, of course, to Apple, Google, Meta (Facebook), Nvidia, and to a company that doesn’t get talkedSat, 28 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/which-do-you-want-to-hear-first/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/which-do-you-want-to-hear-first/My regular readers know that I’m a fan of bad news. At first this sounds surprising and counter-intuitive. But I’ve learned over my career that good news often has limited value — the goal has alreadyFri, 20 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-emotional-side-of-leadership/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-emotional-side-of-leadership/Respect and trust for your people is the foundation of all good management. Without those values, you will never be a successful manager. Respect and trust also has a strong emotional component. I’veSat, 14 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-10-for-planning/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/5-10-for-planning/Last week I reminded readers that, with summer drawing to a close, we’re moving into the fall planning cycle. Making time to plan and confer creates a useful rhythm and a routine. I think of planningSat, 07 Sep 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/rule-of-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/rule-of-3/Last week I looked at my “Rule of Three” for planning. I also have a rule of three for success in bringing on new staff. Staffing is a challenge for every organization. Relentless competition with theSat, 24 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-planning/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-planning/I recently read an article about Jim Collins’ advice to managers. Collins is the author of several management books, including “Good to Great and the Social Sectors.” One of his sayings is, “If you haSat, 17 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strength/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-collaborating-look-for-complementary-strength/I want to continue on the theme of collaboration. Last week I looked at the importance of helping partners succeed. But how do you choose an organization to collaborate with? Collaborations work bestSun, 11 Aug 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaborate-successfully/When I review my proudest achievements, both in business and in the nonprofit sector, collaboration with partners was almost always part of a successful outcome. A lot of senior executives talk aboutSun, 28 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork-2/There are some people who value success but don’t care whether they receive praise or validation from others. They can work fine on a team led by an ambitious extrovert. But multiple ambitious extroveSat, 20 Jul 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture/Nonprofit leadership must establish robust organizational cultures aligned with institutional purpose and values.Sat, 15 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/accountability-vs-victims/When things aren’t going well there is a tendency for staff to personalize their anxiety and frustration and create “villains” and “victims.” This illustration shows the difference between an organizaSat, 01 Jun 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/good-news-bad-news-and-decentralized-decision-making/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/good-news-bad-news-and-decentralized-decision-making/We had a saying at Applied Materials that became well-known both inside and outside the company. Good news is no news.No news is bad news.And bad news is good news—if you do something about it. Of couSat, 25 May 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-3/It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with thSun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/you-are-never-too-young-to-lead/I’ve often noted that one of the most valuable experiences a young, ambitious person can have is to work for excellent managers. And the reverse can be equally true: one of the most valuable experiencSat, 04 May 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-3/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-3/The ongoing dysfunction in Washington in both the House and the Senate highlights the importance of effective problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficult decisions toward soSat, 27 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio-2/Regular readers of my newsletter and my books know that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character of your orgSat, 20 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/ask-simple-questions/Continuing on the theme of staffing from the last two newsletters, I want to share some insights prompted by an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a few years ago titled “Nine NonobSat, 13 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff-2/I talked recently about the hiring challenges that nonprofits face, and shared a tip for finding new prospects to join your team. Let’s look at staffing from another angle. When a nonprofit strugglesSat, 06 Apr 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-art-and-the-logic-of-fundraising/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-art-and-the-logic-of-fundraising/A couple of weeks ago I looked at how nonprofit fundraising has become more difficult over the last several years, particularly since Covid. This week I’d like to share some fundraising insights and aSat, 30 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-a-growing-challenge/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/fundraising-is-a-growing-challenge/I have been hearing from several nonprofit leaders that fundraising has become more difficult since Covid. The nonprofit sector continues to face a shortage of experienced fundraisers, especially diveSun, 17 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dont-be-afraid-to-have-a-plan-b-2/A few weeks ago I talked about driving forces, sources of change that every organization must align with or risk being run over by. Detecting driving forces requires “court sense” — you need to simultSun, 10 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies-2/Many unproductive attitudes can infect a company that does not pay close attention to its culture and values, both daily, and for the long term. I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connecSat, 02 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-online-workshop/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-online-workshop/The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering its third online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on March 6, from 9 am – 11 am PST. CEN is a 30-year-old nonprofSat, 24 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/transforming-how-dei-is-framed/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/transforming-how-dei-is-framed/This week I saw an interesting post examining the evolving challenges facing Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) as we enter February’s Black History Month. CDOs are encountering skepticism about the effeSat, 03 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-and-fundamental-management-practices/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-and-fundamental-management-practices/Well-managed organizations foster diversity, equity and inclusion. It doesn’t have to be a part of a separate DEI effort: It can be most effective when it’s built into the management initiatives thatSat, 27 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/revisiting-dei-in-turbulent-times/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/revisiting-dei-in-turbulent-times/Recent events have caused some people to question the value of DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion. My fundamental belief in the value of DEI to the nonprofit community has not wavered. DEI isn’t juSun, 21 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues-2/At the start of a new year, a time of change, I think about how organizations can best tackle leadership transitions. When it is time for a top executive to leave, succession issues become pervasive wSun, 14 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude-2/2023 wasn’t an easy year for nonprofits; it wasn’t an easy year for the world. And 2024 is off to a rocky start. In the midst of uncertainty, I often turn my attention to solving immediate problems, tSun, 07 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good-2/Success and financial independence are tremendous motivators in life. But as we celebrate the holidays, I like to remind my friends and colleagues that you can do well and at the same time pursue theFri, 29 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all-2/Experienced leaders understand that if an organization cannot be number one or two in its “market” then it should evolve elsewhere. A nonprofit should be one of the leading organizations in its defineSat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values-2/Sometimes people roll their eyes at mission statements and strategic rollout events with slogans and banners. It’s possible to overdo it, but it’s also important to reinforce and repeat fundamental orSat, 09 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-cyclical-environments/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-live-in-cyclical-environments/Nonprofits live in cyclical environments. Their fortunes are often pegged to business growth and strong stock markets, which put cash in their donors’ pockets. When revenues are strong, it’s importantSun, 03 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community-2/With Thanksgiving less than a week away I’m thinking about community, the community that your nonprofit serves, and also the community within your organization. At Applied Materials we were pioneers iSat, 18 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/communicate-the-value-of-training/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/communicate-the-value-of-training/I’m grateful to see that our new online course is proving popular both with readers of the Applied Wisdom booklet and with the newcomers to our website. I think that it’s essential to educate and suppSun, 12 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world-2/I once heard someone say that business executives on nonprofit boards too often leave their brains at the door. It’s unfortunate that some businesspeople who get involved with nonprofits can be impatiSun, 05 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/an-online-opportunity-to-join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/an-online-opportunity-to-join-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering its second 2-hour online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on November 14th. CEN is a 30-year-old nonprofit, basedSat, 28 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards-2/Effective boards can be a great resource for nonprofits. But even very skilled businesspeople often fail to invest much time in structural issues at nonprofits. These nonprofit boards can end up filleSat, 21 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives-2/When it comes to boards, the idea of having a diverse set of people with varied backgrounds is a good one. When you’re only talking with people who know exactly what you know, and whom you value becauSat, 14 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news-2/Some chief executives use board sessions to do a lot of cheerleading and pointing to all the accomplishments they’ve presided over at their nonprofit. Since the chief executive serves at the pleasureSat, 07 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture-2/Support for diversity, equity and inclusion, based on the values of mutual trust and respect, is at the core of a strong and productive organizational culture. This strong and productive culture is, iSat, 30 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-plate-spinner/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-plate-spinner/When I was at Applied Materials we adopted an analogy for the tough job of being a manager. We called them “plate-spinners.” A plate-spinner is an old county fair act where the entertainer starts platSat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings-2/It is human nature to emphasize what we do well and ignore or put off working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or managementSat, 16 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers-2/As your nonprofit grows, the demands within your sector and the dynamics of the larger world change and you have to stay on top of that. You’re never “done” putting organizational processes in place,Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born-2/Some people think that nonprofit leaders are anomalies, special people born with the skills and talents that evade the grasp of the rest of us. But excellent managers are not born. They develop by leaSun, 03 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can-2/Throughout my career I was fortunate to be guided by strong leaders and managers, when I worked on the family farm and in the cannery, while in the army, and throughout my business career. I’ve also wSun, 27 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems-2/At the end of the day no matter how impressive and far-reaching certain systems become, all worthwhile enterprises seeking success are human systems that require leadership and management. The basic nSat, 19 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-a-listening-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-a-listening-culture/Careful listening has always been at the core of my approach to managing people, whatever the size or scale of the organization. At Applied Materials, our “listening culture” began to develop organicaSat, 12 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coming-soon-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/coming-soon-the-applied-wisdom-insights-for-leadership-workshop/The Center for Excellence in Nonprofits (CEN) is offering a 2-hour online workshop based on my Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector, on August 24th. CEN is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, basedSun, 06 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/inspired-by-nonprofit-leaders/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/inspired-by-nonprofit-leaders/In creating our Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector online course, three local nonprofit leaders shared some of their unique management experiences. I was particularly inspired by things that eachSun, 23 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings-2/Last week I talked about group communication and about presentations. Let’s consider meetings more broadly: Make sure no one leaves a meeting without making decisions on every recommendation. If thereSun, 09 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions-2/When you’re trying to communicate something important to a group, begin at the end, by stating your conclusions and recommendations. Then get into the whys and the supporting data. People will focus bSat, 01 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-your-own-management-toolkit/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-your-own-management-toolkit/For many years I’ve collected articles, lists, notes, and ideas that I picked up reading, listening to speakers, or just talking with people. These became the foundation for the many Morganisms that ISat, 24 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture-should-support-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/organizational-culture-should-support-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/Readers of Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector have pointed out to me that many of the principles outlined in the booklet can support organizations striving to be more diverse, equitable and incluSun, 18 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/respect-amp-trust-is-at-the-heart-of-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/respect-amp-trust-is-at-the-heart-of-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/When I think more deeply about diversity, equity and inclusion, I’m reminded of one of my core beliefs, which is to build your organizational culture around the principles of mutual trust and respect.Sun, 11 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-early-experience-with-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/my-early-experience-with-diversity-equity-and-inclusion/The writer and comedian Alexandria Love writes with insight about diversity, equity and inclusion. She points out that while many people believe that “diversity” and “inclusion” are the same, there isSun, 04 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/creating-the-applied-wisdom-for-the-nonprofit-sector-online-course/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/creating-the-applied-wisdom-for-the-nonprofit-sector-online-course/I’ve asked Leslie Hansen, who was instrumental in creating the new online Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector Online Course, to share with my readers the story of how the course was born. Last yeaSat, 13 May 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/announcing-the-new-applied-wisdom-online-course/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/announcing-the-new-applied-wisdom-online-course/The most frequent request I get from readers of Applied Wisdom for the Nonprofit Sector is “more.” How can I learn more? How can I increase my understanding of the principles in the book? How can I shSun, 07 May 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant-2/It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with thSat, 22 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude-2/Everyone running an organization, a department, or a team must accept responsibility for also managing less-glamorous duties, such as the implementation of strategy through planning, budgeting, organiSat, 15 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards-2/A board’s responsibility includes the oversight of a healthy internal culture. When board members behave courteously and respectfully toward each other and towards management, they set an example forFri, 07 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management-2/Books on organizational success often focus on leadership. Others seem to focus solely on management. But effectively running an organization demands both leadership and management. They are closely aFri, 17 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/18-fundraising-truisms/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/18-fundraising-truisms/My friend Henry E. (Hank) Riggs worked in Silicon Valley in the 1960s, and then, in 1974, became a professor of engineering at Stanford University. In 1983, Hank took on the challenge of overseeing alSat, 11 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum-2/I’ve talked before about the cost of perfect information. People who become overly focused on obtaining perfect information before making decisions often waste time and miss out on opportunities. ForSat, 04 Mar 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/seeing-the-hope-inside-yourself/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/seeing-the-hope-inside-yourself/National Mentoring Month takes place every January. President Biden noted in his 2023 National Mentoring Month declaration, “As families and friends, teachers and counselors, coaches and co-workers, fSat, 25 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/your-say-do-ratio/Regular readers of my newsletter and books know that my cornerstone saying and belief is that respecting and trusting your people is the foundation of all good management. The character of your organiSat, 18 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring-2/Staffing is a challenge for every organization. Relentless competition with the for-profit sector can make hiring extra challenging for nonprofits. An organization committed to excellence deliberatelySat, 11 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/asking-simple-questions/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/asking-simple-questions/I collect newsletters and newspaper articles that suggest ideas for my upcoming newsletters. One clipping I just uncovered is from an article that David Brooks wrote in the New York Times a couple ofSun, 05 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/less-is-the-key-to-success/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/less-is-the-key-to-success/Robert I. Sutton, a professor of management science and engineering at Stanford University published a recent article in the Wall Street Journal titled “Why Bosses Should Ask Employees to Do Less—NotSun, 29 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/when-its-time-for-change-dont-start-with-the-staff/When a nonprofit struggles it’s usually not because the staff are weak. It’s more likely the result of inadequate leadership and poor planning. Most employees are just as savvy as any management consuSat, 21 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talk-about-management-when-youre-still-small/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talk-about-management-when-youre-still-small/I have never believed that the skills required to successfully manage an organization are reserved for a special or chosen few. What is often lacking is merely some simple, straightforward insights anSat, 14 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/problem-solving-and-the-lets-do-attitude/The current dysfunction in the House of Representatives in Washington highlights the importance of effective decision-making and problem-solving. Nonprofits are constantly faced with making difficultSun, 08 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-years-resolution/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-new-years-resolution/As we approach our New Year’s celebrations, I’d like to suggest to you that an excellent New Year pledge is to improving your organization’s management capabilities. It starts with you! I expect thatWed, 28 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving-2/With the holiday season upon us, a time of joy and of sharing, this newsletter is specifically about donorship. It’s at this time of the year that I often reflect on the enormous efforts and the tremeSat, 17 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/great-leaders/Our society has promoted the idea that the great leader is special, perhaps born to lead, or requires the highest levels of academic training. Business books and magazines often focus on dramatic examSat, 10 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-lessons-from-the-ftx-collapse/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-lessons-from-the-ftx-collapse/The demise of Sam Bankman-Fried’s FTX cryptocurrency exchange offers a lesson to nonprofit leaders on the importance of timely and accurate financial information. It’s also a reminder that we should aSat, 03 Dec 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shared-experience/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shared-experience/With Thanksgiving less than a week away I’m thinking about community, the community that your nonprofit serves, but also the community within your organization. The Covid crisis isolated board membersSat, 12 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-dailies/I’ve always made a point of challenging staff to connect their daily activities to basic values and goals. If they encounter a conflict they cannot resolve, I encourage them to communicate this to a mSat, 12 Nov 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-whole-job/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-whole-job/When working with nonprofits I often talk about the importance of managing “the whole job.” Whether an organization sells a product or a service, it needs functions and processes that support the missSat, 29 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofit-boards-and-bad-news/Some chief executives use board sessions to do a lot of cheerleading and pointing to all the accomplishments they’ve presided over. Since the chief executive serves at the pleasure of the board, it’sWed, 26 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/mission-statements-reinforce-organizational-values/Here are a few mission statements from prominent nonprofit organizations: The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Make a Wish America: TogeSun, 16 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/number-one-or-two-or-not-at-all/Experienced strategic managers learn that if an organization cannot be number one or two in its “market” then it should evolve elsewhere. Below that level is a difficult place to sit. I call organizatTue, 04 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/succession-issues/When it is time for a CEO to leave, succession issues become pervasive within a nonprofit. The process of grooming possible successors can be divisive, often creating a distraction. Senior staff tendSat, 01 Oct 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/interacting/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/interacting/Everywhere I worked I enjoyed interacting with people, whether they were ranked well above me or they performed entry level jobs. I have no tolerance for anyone who lords their position or power overSat, 17 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/sometimes-a-decision-is-a-good-decision-until-its-no-longer-a-good-decision/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/sometimes-a-decision-is-a-good-decision-until-its-no-longer-a-good-decision/With shifting social and economic cycles, things happen unexpectedly that can help or hurt an organization. I’ve talked in the past about “facing the elevator door,” as a way of thinking about opportuSat, 10 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/developing-managers/As your nonprofit grows, the demands within your sector and the dynamics of the larger world change and you have to stay on top of that. You’re never “done” putting organizational processes in place,Fri, 02 Sep 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-and-the-business-world/I once heard someone say about business executives on nonprofit boards that they often leave their brains at the door. It’s unfortunate that sometimes impatient business people get involved with nonprSat, 27 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/shrink-the-problem/Nonprofits are founded to tackle tough issues and to solve challenging problems. But sometimes a problem is too large to be tackled head on, and a nonprofit can freeze up, uncertain of how it can be mSat, 20 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/cultural-course-correction/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/cultural-course-correction/Last week I looked at how to develop a strong organizational culture which includes support for DEI, grounded in mutual trust and respect. That culture is built on structure, processes and people. ThiSat, 13 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/structure-processes-people-culture/Support for DEI, based on the values of mutual trust and respect, is part of a strong and productive organizational culture. This strong and productive culture is, in turn, the result of three elementFri, 05 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-can-be-ruthlessly-competitive/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/nonprofits-can-be-ruthlessly-competitive/Nonprofits can be ruthlessly competitive and wary of one another. One reason is that nonprofits are constantly fundraising, and all the organizations in a given space tend to target the same donors orSat, 30 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/decisions-create-momentum/A decision accomplishes nothing except creating momentum in a particular direction. Deciding to get married, for example, does not create a long and happy marriage — it just sets the possibility in moTue, 12 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/uncover-driving-forces/It’s been said that the one constant is change. Change creates opportunity. In every opportunity and in every decision, there are driving forces that you need to consider. For example, the rapid spreaSat, 09 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/diverse-boards-provide-diverse-perspectives/When it comes to boards, the idea of having a diverse set of people with varied backgrounds is a good one. When you’re only talking with people who know exactly what you know, and whom you value becauSun, 03 Jul 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-is-driven-by-fundamental-management-principles/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/dei-is-driven-by-fundamental-management-principles/Diversity, equity and inclusion are, rightly, much on leaders’ minds and in the press these days. It is concerning to me, though, that many people are treating DEI as though it is its own discipline.Fri, 24 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/building-nonprofit-boards/Effective boards can be a great resource for nonprofits. But even very skilled businesspeople often fail to invest much time in structural issues at nonprofits. These nonprofit boards can end up filleSat, 18 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talented-motivated-people/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/talented-motivated-people/I always stress that a culture of respect and trust begins with a commitment to hiring excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. Talented, motivated people willMon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/porpoising-for-insights/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/porpoising-for-insights/You can learn about what’s really going on within your organization by “porpoising.” Think about a porpoise, repeatedly diving deep into the ocean and then rising to the surface, gathering informationWed, 01 Jun 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/paradoxes/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/paradoxes/The business world is full of contradictions. Today’s most effective companies must be both global and local. Product development must be fast and also low-defect. Companies must attain critical massFri, 27 May 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-average-employee-gets-it/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-average-employee-gets-it/It’s essential to create a culture of accountability where highly trained, skilled employees are supported and encouraged to speak up when they see or hear a problem developing. Insulated leaders someSat, 21 May 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/teamwork/There are some people who value success but don’t care whether they receive praise or validation from others. They can work fine on a team led by an ambitious extrovert. But multiple ambitious extroveSat, 14 May 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/start-with-your-conclusions/When you’re trying to communicate something important to a group, begin at the end, by stating your conclusions and recommendations. Then get into the whys and the supporting data. People will focus bWed, 04 May 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/make-decisions-at-meetings/Make sure no one leaves a meeting without making decisions on every recommendation. If there’s still concern or confusion, schedule a second meeting as soon as possible and hash over the remaining proSat, 30 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/work-for-the-best-managers-you-can/Throughout my career I was fortunate to be tutored by strong leaders and managers, when I worked on the family farm and in the cannery, in the army, and throughout my business career. Nothing beats woSat, 23 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/managers-must-address-their-shortcomings/It is human nature to emphasize what we do well and ignore or put off working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or managementSat, 16 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/excellent-managers-are-not-born/Some people think that leaders are anomalies, special people born with the skills and talents that evade the grasp of the rest of us. But excellent managers are not born. They develop by learning: leaSat, 09 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/all-worthwhile-enterprises-are-human-systems/Merging the management of human systems with a complex world is crucial. The details change, the motivating forces may cycle, and the tools that we give to our employees may get dramatic upgrades. ButSat, 02 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/management-toolkit/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/management-toolkit/I have always encouraged people to develop their own management toolkit or set of guiding principles. For many years I collected articles, lists, notes, and ideas I picked up reading, listening to speSat, 26 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/offsite-meetings/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/offsite-meetings/As staff begin to return to the office it’s time to revisit your organization’s culture. Your teams have been working remotely for two years or more. How do you rebuild camaraderie and teamwork afterSat, 19 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/achieving-goals/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/achieving-goals/It’s human nature to aim for a goal and then assume when you get there life will be easier. In business and in nonprofits, people have a tendency to think that if they just reach some magic size or hiTue, 15 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hiring-and-the-two-negatives/Last week I talked about how important it is to hire excellent people, people who can own their work, both its successes and failures. I’ve got a tip about how to make great hires. In addition to theSat, 05 Mar 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hire-excellent-people/A culture of respect and trust begins with a commitment to hiring excellent people. Most things my team did, they did better than I could have. Little time was spent cleaning up after anybody or reverSun, 27 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/first-assistant/It’s useful to think of yourself as “first assistant to” your direct reports. You want people at every level to understand the organization’s goals and objectives and make decisions that align with thSat, 19 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-court-sense-post/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/develop-court-sense-post/I’ve always liked basketball because it is an intense and fluid game. There’s no standing around waiting for a pitch or lining up and waiting for a snap. While you have a game plan, you have to adjustSat, 12 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/participating-on-nonprofit-boards/The other day I heard from the president of a local nonprofit. She shared with me what she has found are the keys to being a successful contributor to a nonprofit board. Here is her list: Always be onSat, 05 Feb 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/treating-people-with-respect/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/treating-people-with-respect/Respect and trust your people This is the foundation of all good management. Without it, you will never be a successful manager. A key element of respect is modeling every behavior you expect in yourSat, 22 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-lets-do-attitude/When your primary focus is just on solving problems, it shapes your attitude toward new ideas and how to put them to work. You want to go beyond pondering a problem to imagining the solution. It’s notSat, 15 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/face-the-elevator-door/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/face-the-elevator-door/Change is the medium of opportunity. At Applied Materials, my team came up with a concept we called “facing the elevator door,” as a way of thinking about opportunity. With shifting economic cycles, tFri, 07 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-larger-goal-of-doing-good/Success and financial independence are tremendous motivators in life. But as we celebrate the holidays, I like to remind my friends and colleagues that you can do well and at the same time pursue theSat, 18 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/where-strategy-meets-action/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/where-strategy-meets-action/Implementation is partly about an attitude: Just do it. It’s when strategy meets a bias toward action and thoughtful completion. People tend to get comfortable with process and reports. The great valuSat, 11 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/tone-at-the-top-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/tone-at-the-top-2/A board’s responsibility — whether at a nonprofit or a for-profit company — includes overseeing a healthy internal culture. While your board may have limited exposure to your establishment’s day-to-daSun, 05 Dec 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-on-your-local-community/At Applied Materials we were pioneers in recognizing the importance of companies paying attention to the communities in which they operate. We always kept a local focus and made sure we acknowledged oSat, 27 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-humble-approach-to-giving/I’ve been deeply engaged in philanthropy for more than two decades. Friends and colleagues often ask me how I assess the effectiveness of a nonprofit. I share with them that I have the highest regardSun, 21 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/hubs-and-spokes/Last week I looked at the difference between leadership and management. This week I want to consider the evolution from loose entrepreneurial management to a more structured hierarchy. Most start-up oSun, 14 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMTImplementationJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/leadership-vs-management/Books on corporate success often focus on leadership. Others focus solely on management. But effectively running an organization demands both leadership and management. They are closely aligned, but tSat, 06 Nov 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-revisited/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-revisited/Last week I shared the idea that bad news can be good news within your organization. Let’s look more closely at what that means. My full saying (my Morganism) is: Good news is no news. No news is badSat, 23 Oct 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-ii/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/bad-news-is-good-news-ii/Nonprofits are in the business of tackling tough challenges — addressing poverty, improving education, and protecting the planet. The passionate, smart, and good-hearted people who work in the sectorSun, 26 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/book-it-and-ship-it-2/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/book-it-and-ship-it-2/Last week I looked at the cost of perfect information. Most people over-analyze challenges and opportunities, trying to uncover the “perfect” information that they think will reveal the best choice. ISat, 25 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-rule-of-three-for-hiring/When I worked in business management I developed a “Rule of Three” for success in hiring new staff. I’ve found that it’s just as effective for nonprofits. Here’s how it works…. It should be a prioritySat, 25 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-cost-of-perfect-information/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/the-cost-of-perfect-information/I’ve talked before about the importance of making timely decisions. Of course, making good decisions, timed right, is a tough challenge for every manager. But most people over-analyze opportunities, tSat, 18 Sep 2021 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-values-based-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-values-based-culture/The role of leadership is to build a strong organizational culture based on a nonprofit’s mission, vision, and values. An exceptional culture will attract great employees and volunteers, board membersSat, 28 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/some-thoughts-on-decision-making/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/some-thoughts-on-decision-making/A strong leader delegates decision-making authority for a project to the lowest practicable level within an organization. This is the value of hierarchy and decentralized decision-making. You set theSat, 14 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/manage-your-shortcomings/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/manage-your-shortcomings/It’s human nature to focus on what we do well and then to ignore or postpone working on what does not come as naturally. A good manager must fight that instinct, understand what key leadership or manaSun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/create-accountability-not-victims/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/create-accountability-not-victims/As individuals and organizations transition to a New Normal, many of us are wondering what our culture will be or what it should be. Effective decision making is core for every organization. ThroughouSun, 04 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-for-possibilities/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-for-possibilities/It's 2021 and we need to understand why planning for possibilities is important. What a difference a month makes! After too long in darkness, we’ve seen movement (despite some setbacks) in deploying CThu, 25 Feb 2021 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-rest-refresh/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/focus-rest-refresh/This will be my final newsletter for the year. And what a year it has been! Covid has dominated our lives for all but a few weeks in 2020. Concurrently we’ve faced major economic and racial justice isWed, 16 Dec 2020 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/giving-thanks/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/giving-thanks/This is surely the most challenging year that nonprofits have faced in a generation, forced to struggle with the chaos of Covid-19 during a time of great political turmoil. But in the midst of these mSun, 29 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-and-the-november-election/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/planning-and-the-november-election/You don’t often hear the term “court sense” when discussing the leadership of nonprofits. The term comes from basketball, describing the ability of a player to see what’s developing on the court, at aSun, 15 Nov 2020 00:00:00 GMTPlanningJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaboration-mindset/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/collaboration-mindset/Collaboration mindset. Consider, for a moment, just that one word. Collaboration. I have long encouraged nonprofits to collaborate, but collaboration has never been more important, even urgent, than iFri, 11 Sep 2020 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morganhttps://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-crisis-of-culture/https://www.appliedwisdomfornonprofits.org/a-crisis-of-culture/Last month I talked about COVID, leadership and culture. COVID remains a massive crisis. As I write this, there were over 50,000 new cases in the U.S. recorded yesterday, with more than 128,000 dead.Sat, 04 Jul 2020 00:00:00 GMTCultureJim Morgan