Justin K. Williams

Trustworthy: The first among the twelve points of the Scout Law.  In everything that we say and do honesty is expected.  Trustworthiness is the foundation on which teamwork is built. Even when the truth is painful, or the results are outside our plans and preparations, it is imperative that we remain honest with one another.  All the facts must be clear in order for us to make the best decisions possible.  No one will ever be penalized for telling the truth.

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Honor: Our reputation is our most prized possession and we must protect it as such a prize. We will often be pulled in many directions, and cutting corners to accomplish goals will be tempting; however, once your integrity is called into question, recovery will be difficult.  If you are ever unsure of the right thing to do, ask.  If you ever feel uncomfortable doing something you are asked to do, speak up.  If you are still uncomfortable after discussing the matter with me or your staff leader, get a second opinion. 

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Accountability: When we say we are going to do something, the expectation is that we will complete the task on time.  If circumstances change preventing us from either completing the goal or completing it on time, we need to immediately communicate this to the other affected team members.  The sooner we know that a problem exists the more time we have to overcome the obstacles and get back on track.  Successful teams solve problems together.

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Open-door Policy: I strive to always be available to discuss your concerns.  Regardless of your position or tenure within the team all ideas are welcome, and if you believe you have a better way of doing something, please share it.  I do, however, expect you to use our normal chain of command when possible. 

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Teamwork: We have no chance of success if we attempt to accomplish our mission alone.  The single most important thing we can do is recruit others to help us.  Effective teamwork will lead to success.  If you find yourself thinking about a problem in terms of “what can I do,” or “what should they do” think again.  “We” will solve our problems together.  Continually, reinforce that “we” are collectively the Council with our volunteers.  Say it often enough and they will start to believe that everyone can have an impact.  When you need help, consider calling upon another member of our professional team for advice, and be eager to return the favor.

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Effective Leadership: To hold a leadership position on our team you are expected to a servant leader above all else.  We care about our direct reports and teammates because without them we have no hope of success.  Friendship is not required, but caring is.  Feedback on performance should be given regularly.  Everyone should always know where they stand both in terms of performance and advancement.  The professional development of our team members will ensure long-term success and sustainability.

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Mistakes: Honest mistakes will happen and are our most important learning tool.  When a mistake is made, take responsibility for it.  Mistakes that are made due to a failure to plan should disappoint all of us.  Every effort should be taken to identify problems when they are small and can be dealt with more easily.  Mistakes most often occur when we begin to feel overwhelmed.  If you begin to feel overwhelmed, ask for help.  There is always help available.

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Be Exceptional: We will set high standards in everything we do. Aristotle said, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is a habit.” We will strive to grow programs of which we can be proud.  If we would not want our son or daughter to be a part of a unit, how can ask others to be a part of it?  Remember that we will often be judged by how well we execute the routine tasks of our job.  Make sure to take pride in everything you do. 

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Work/Life Balance:  At its core Scouting is a family activity and this concept should extend to Professional Scouters.  Success at work is interdependent on having a successful home life.  To accomplish our mission, we may need to make personal sacrifices, but it is important for us to maintain our role within our families.  A professional Scouting career is a life choice as much as it is a job.  It is important that our families understand the importance of what we do and for us to recognize the sacrifices that our family members must make in order to support us.  Our families are a vital part of our team.  Look to take advantage of opportunities to make time for your family.  Invite them to join you at events when appropriate.

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Personal Development: Each team member is expected to continually seek personal and professional growth.  Every effort will be made to give you the opportunities and time to pursue these areas of interest.

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Innovation: We work in a rapidly changing world and to remain successful we must commit to changing with it.  Don’t be afraid to take on projects that you do not know initially how to complete.  Individual initiative is encouraged. Plan and expect to be successful, but do not let fear of failure deter you from moving forward.  Facilitate an environment where all ideas are welcome.  When you identify a new and better way of doing something tell everyone! 

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Decision Making:  The decisions we make today can determine the health of our organization for years to come.  It is our responsibility to ensure that Scouting celebrates a 200th anniversary.  This goal will require us to balance the short-term and long-term needs of our Council, team, and districts in many of the decisions we make.  Ask yourself, “Will this decision stand up over time and improve the organization for the long-term.” If the answer isn’t clear, reconsider your course of action.

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Professionalism:  In everything we do we must remember that we represent Scouting America.  Our actions should reflect our commitment and pride towards working for the greatest youth leadership development program on the planet. 

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Fun: Our careers will often require hard work and long hours, however, remember to have fun whenever possible.  Our volunteers will know if we don’t enjoy our work.

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Recognition and Reward: My ultimate goal is for all of us to be extremely proud of the work we accomplish together and for us to be regularly rewarded with success.  I will make every effort to understand each team member’s personal and professional goals and work to support you in achieving them. I ask that each of you ask yourselves daily, “What have I done today to make Scouting better?  Can I be proud of the work I have done today? What can I learn from today to better prepare myself for tomorrow?”