Political Lessons I've Learned On the Co-Op Board

[Demeter]

1. First impressions are very accurate.

If the first thing that pops into your mind is:"This person is a flaming idiot. That person is incompetent. The one over there is bone lazy," then you are usually right. Ocassionally you might be pleasantly surprised--some people have only pockets of idiocy, imcompetence, or laziness, yet have some redeeming features that can contribute to the group effort. Alternatively, some people have a spectrum: they are idiotic, incompetent AND shiftless! Run away, as fast as you can.

2. Self Dealing is the worst crime.

In any kind of enterprise, there are those who work towards a common goal, and those who are in it for whatever they can steal, legally or otherwise. Try to let the latter show all their worst qualities early, so that the members can vote them off the board.

3. "Let George Do It" Syndrome is a fatal disease. (Well, besides those Georges, I mean!) If the group cannot or will not step up to the plate, you will have a lifetime job of cleaning up their messes, until you are carted off with bleeding ulcers.

4. Do not expend all resources on the frills. Save something for calamities.

5. Do not take shit from the members. It is a volunteer, non-paying post.