Question from a new leader about training: I was really looking forward to being a Daisy leader for my daughter. I took the training and already feel completely discouraged. The amount of paperwork seems overwhelming. The trainer was less enthusiastic and the whole thing doesn’t seem like much fun anymore. What was your training experience like and how did you not get discouraged?
Our Facebook leaders shared their experience:
Nancy wrote in: Don’t be discouraged! I just finished my Daisy year – we will be Brownies soon and I didn’t take the training because its only offered during times when I could not take off of work. I’ve actually been VERY disappointed how training is handled in my council. But I have to tell you I stumbled thru – It does take time, but the payoff is worth it. I had only a treasurer, no co-leader. The only paperwork we did was for the Bank account, the girls medical forms and permission slips, and that required for cookie sales. Take it one step at a time. You will be fine. And please know that It is soo worth it.
Arus’s comment: I just finished my first year as a new leader, and after my training I left the same way… it’s really not as bad as if sounds. All you have to do is get organized. Buy a 2 in binder and divided it up for financials, emergency forms, planning ideas, etc... as long as you’re organized you’ll do great… Also, share the responsibility. .. don’t do all the work yourself, have your co-leader help… have someone as your treasure. .. departmentalize the work.
Deanna’s suggestion: I am a new leader coach. It is my duty to help new leaders through their first year. check your service unit or council to see if you have new leader coaches available.
Johanna wrote: As a new leader even with an enthusiastic training session, I was overwhelmed by all the hoops you have to go through. One thing to note…setting up a troop does take some time and paperwork, but once it’s set up, it’s not nearly as painful to keep running. We’ll be starting our second year of brownies now and I can say it is well worth the effort!
Niki’s help: My council offers online training, which I found to be more enjoyable than in class training. The paperwork exists for a reason, it’s a necessary evil and there will be forms you have to fill out for various reasons throughout your GS
experience, it is what it is… The fun part is working with the girls!
Michelle’s experience: First, let me say that my training was done by an enthusiastic trainer. That being said, don’t get discouraged. I spent my first year fearful of missing something or doing something wrong. Surround yourself with strong women. Ask questions. Tons of questions if you have too. Your service unit members and other leaders are happy to help. They have been where you are. We are starting year number 5 with 40 multi level girls and GS is by far the most amazing thing we’ve done. Your troop will be what you make it! Be Amazing!!!
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