Developing an Advisory Council

• Advisory Council or Committee -Advisory councils and committees may exist for several years, as long as there is a benefit to the institution. Council is often used to describe oversight, whereas committees are formal groups brought together often in bylaws to execute mission-critical objectives.

• Work Group- Workgroups often utilize specific area experts to work on a specific project.

• Task Force - Task forces are workgroups typically comprising experts in specified areas of knowledge or practice. Task forces are small groups of people—and resources—brought together to accomplish a specific objective, with the expectation that the group will disband when the objective has been completed.

2. Define the purpose

What are you trying to do? Why does this group exist?

3. Decide who you need

What areas of expertise do you need to be represented?

4. Determine a timeline

How long will this group continue to work together? Is there an end date? What can members expect as far as commitment goes?

5. Determine what meetings look like

How often will meetings of the group happen? What will the format be? What happens when members miss meetings? Who's running these meetings? Is someone keeping notes, setting an agenda? Who is that?

6. Determine benefits to members

Time is the most valuable resource. Determine what's in it for members. Is there a stipend, credit given, highlight on social media? Show people, their time is valued.

7. Create Job Descriptions

Nothing leads to an unproductive group more than not setting clear expectations. Each member should have a role description with qualifications and key tasks expected of them.

8. Verify Commitment

Whether you have members sign their job description, or a more formal commitment form, having members acknowledge the commitment will help hold the group accountable and not frustrate dedicated members.