My addendum to PSL fishbowl
After attending PSL fishbowl last night, I have a few things I’d like to put on the record. I’m not a verbose guy, so this should be rather pithy.
Last night, after I gave my groups 5 min presentation on the chosen topic, “ways to fix the PSL communication/website issues”, I quickly realized I missed an opportunity to really speak my mind about how to make PSL a stronger organization.
So here ya go…
Purpose
Philly Startups Leaders should embrace their name and be an organization for LEADERS. Why not simply support entrepreneurial leaders that are doing awesome things “for” Philadelphia? Fostering this type of environment is exactly what philly needs and can’t be accomplished with monthly happy hours or tech demos. The goal should really be to convince others to step up and earn your stripes in the community.
Challenges
There will always be fragmentation in this type of group simply because of the nature and personalities of its membership. PSL should just accept this reality and stop worrying about the marketing benefits of a “large” mailing list. Why not just FOCUS on finding the next rising leaders the community can rally behind. Do that effectively, and no one will care about maintaining a mailing list. The lesson here, be careful what you measure.
Execution
First off, a strategy has to be formed to recruit members that are leaders in the community. There needs to be a simple process for new members to apply by giving their relevant accomplishments and also a process for existing members to sponsor leaders that should be accepted as members.
Second, a major factor in organizing a group of people that are willing to work with each other and are also be proud of being a part of the group, is having a common bond. So, maybe the only member requirement should be having a major accomplishment in the community (Launching a company, organizing a group or event that helps Philly startups). Also, each member should be somehow recognized for each of their accomplishments. Recognizing members for their work is a great way to inspire others to make contributions and at the same time build a stronger community.
Lastly, a really cool way to strengthen membership is to convince them all to really “work together” once or twice a year. I could see a PSL summit, where all are invited to a 2 or 3 day event of activities that could focus on addressing local issues and team building. This could be an amazingly effective way to form and strengthen relationships amongst members.
That’s all for now…keep the wheels turning.
