The Counter Offensive: Outcome-Driven Empowerment over Rigid Position Descriptions
Replace rigid role descriptions with an outcome-driven empowerment model that unleashes volunteer creativity in grassroots sports clubs.
“I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.” – Wayne Gretzky
Situation: Grassroots sports clubs often micromanage roles through detailed position descriptions, stifling creativity and individual accountability.
THE COMMON APPROACH
Concept of Operations (CONOPS): Clubs traditionally craft exhaustive position descriptions that specify every duty, procedure, and task an incumbent must perform. These documents serve as the “how-to” manual for every role—from treasurer to registrar.
Centre of Gravity (CG): This approach hinges on the belief that clearly defined instructions and tightly controlled task lists guarantee operational consistency and straightforward accountability.
Targetable Critical Vulnerabilities (TCVs):
TCV 1: Reduced Innovation & Inflexibility: Overly detailed prescriptions quash creativity and hinder adaptability, locking clubs into outdated practices when circumstances change.
TCV 2: Stifled Ownership: Incumbents feel they are simply executing a checklist rather than actively shaping their role, dampening personal initiative and strategic leadership.
TCV 3: Underutilisation of Strengths: Rigid mandates restrict role occupants from leveraging their unique skills and insights—vital ingredients for truly effective outcomes.
THE COUNTER OFFENSIVE
CONOPS: Instead of dictating every action, articulate the purpose of each position along with the outcomes required. Empower the role holder to devise their own methods that capitalise on their strengths while driving toward these outcomes.
CG: This approach is driven by purpose-driven empowerment. It relies on a clear vision and trust in the individual, ensuring accountability is based on results rather than adherence to a static task list.
Method: To enact this CONOPS, the following Decisive Events (DEs) need to occur:
DE 1: Define the Purpose & Outcomes: Clearly articulate the overarching purpose of the role and identify key outcomes that serve as the benchmark for success.
DE 2: Empower the Incumbent: Invite the role-holder to design their own approach toward achieving these outcomes. Emphasise that they backbrief their strategy—that is, they must clearly outline how they will meet the outcomes, detailing a tailored plan that leverages their individual strengths.
DE 3: Establish Outcome-Focused Metrics: Develop clear, quantifiable indicators of success aligned with the defined outcomes (e.g., increased fundraising efficiency, improved budget adherence, enhanced member engagement). Set regular review checkpoints that focus on these results, allowing for strategic recalibration while preserving the incumbent’s autonomy.
What Success Looks Like: In a case study from The Agile Organization in Volunteer Management: A Framework for Empowerment in Community Organizations (Smith, Brown, & Nguyen, 2021), Springfield Community Sports Club abandoned rigid task lists in favor of outcome-based roles. For example, the media outreach role was redefined as: “Enhance community engagement by innovating outreach strategies and fostering local partnerships.” The volunteer backbriefed their plan, proposing targeted social media campaigns and local events. This agile approach led to a 40% boost in community engagement. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jva.2021.03.007
By replacing rigid, detailed position descriptions with an outcome-driven empowerment model, grassroots sports clubs can unlock the full potential of their volunteers. This counter-offensive not only reinforces accountability but also fosters creative, agile solutions tailored to the club’s evolving landscape.
Are you ready to transform your sports club’s approach? Join the conversation and share your experiences with us! At Mission Command, we believe in empowering grassroots sports clubs to achieve their full potential. Contact us today at admin@missioncomd.com.au to learn how we can help your club thrive with innovative solutions and expert management. Together, let’s ensure every child has the opportunity to be involved in a sports team.