by Larry Harmon DTM Division E Director
Just over 90 days into the Toastmasters year, the Trio, Division Directors, and Area Directors have been working tirelessly. There’s so much more going on behind the scenes than I had anticipated. From getting to know the clubs in our Areas and Division, preparing for Division-sponsored training sessions (TLIs), promoting attendance at the Year End Celebration and the upcoming Summit to our clubs, encouraging clubs to renew their dues, passing on time-sensitive information, I’ve learned that leadership is a multifaceted challenge. However, the most important task has been forming a strong team between me, the Division Director, and my team of Area Directors, which we are still working on daily.
When I began my role as Division Director, I set a personal goal: to grow my leadership skills by confronting a key weakness I knew I had. That weakness was letting go of control and trusting others to get the job done. In both my professional life and in Toastmasters, I’ve faced this challenge time and time again. I often find it faster and easier to jump in and handle multiple tasks myself. But as I’ve learned, while that may get things done in the short term, it can overwhelm me – and, more importantly, it doesn’t allow others the space to step up and grow.
Most of our Area Directors are new to district leadership. For many, this is their first glimpse behind the curtain, seeing what it truly takes to run a Toastmasters District. It can be overwhelming, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to build a team dynamic.
So, how do we form a team? Luckily, District 25 provided an ideal starting point with the Leadership Camp, held before the new Toastmasters year even began. This camp was crucial in helping everyone get to know each other – Area Directors meeting fellow ADs, Division Directors, and the Trio. It laid the groundwork for trust and understanding, setting the stage for the months ahead.
But leadership development doesn’t stop there. Building our bond continues as we face challenges together, tackle tasks, and maintain ongoing communication. Every interaction, every shared task, is a steppingstone toward a stronger team.
As a leader, I’ve learned a few keyways to help my team – and myself – succeed:
Providing the right tools and knowledge: A leader’s job is to ensure the team has the resources they need. And it’s just as important to create a space where they feel comfortable asking questions if they’re unsure. I may not always have the answers, but I remind my team that we have a larger district network full of support, ready to help.
Setting expectations and being accountable: It’s vital for the team to know what’s expected of them in their roles. At the same time, I’m transparent with them about the fact that I, too, am accountable to the District Director and the Trio. Clear expectations and shared accountability create an environment where trust can thrive.
Leadership isn’t just about doing – it’s about guiding, supporting, and enabling others to rise to their potential. As we continue this journey together, I’m learning that letting go of control doesn’t mean losing it. In fact, it’s about building a stronger, more capable team. By empowering others to lead, “Here We Grow.”
