Are you looking to make a lasting impact in your community? Civic leadership is the foundation of creating meaningful change, and according to Kim Borchers, owner of Bird Dog Recruitment and Consulting, it starts with showing up, building relationships, and staying committed for the long haul. Drawing on over 20 years of experience, Borchers shares actionable insights on how to establish yourself as a trusted civic leader.
1. Get Involved Before Issues Arise
Borchers highlights the importance of proactive involvement:
“Build your well before you even need it.”
Many people only engage with their community when problems arise. However, true civic leadership begins long before there’s an issue. Attend city council meetings, join committees, or volunteer for local organizations to understand how things work. This early involvement positions you as a resource and ensures you’re ready to make a difference when the time comes.
2. Invest in Your Community
Great communities don’t happen by accident—they’re shaped by people who care. Borchers explains:
“Our communities don’t become great on their own. They are great because of the people who engage, who give their time, their talent, and their treasure.”
From addressing zoning issues to participating in local cleanups, investing in your community is vital. While some tasks may feel tedious or unglamorous, they’re often the most impactful.
3. Lead by Following
Not all leadership requires taking charge. Borchers stresses the importance of humility and collaboration:
“If everyone walks into the room thinking they need to lead, we’re in trouble.”
Effective leaders recognize when to step back, listen, and follow others. Supporting others’ ideas and fostering collaboration builds trust and credibility, ensuring your voice is valued when it matters most.
4. Build a Long-Term Reputation
Civic leadership isn’t about quick wins—it’s about consistency. Over time, Borchers has built a reputation in her community as a reliable and trusted leader. She reflects:
“What’s humbling is when people I don’t even know reach out for my opinion because they’ve seen my work and trust my judgment.”
To achieve this, focus on doing the work consistently, keeping your word, and engaging with others authentically.
5. Align Passion with Purpose
Finding your passion is the key to sustaining your efforts in civic leadership. Whether it’s improving schools, addressing local infrastructure, or advocating for community programs, focus on causes that resonate with you. For women interested in civic engagement, Borchers recommends exploring The Policy Circle, a program designed to help identify interests and align skills with community needs.
The Need for More Civic Leaders
Borchers closes with an inspiring call to action:
“We can’t do it alone. We need more civic leaders—people who are willing to step up to the plate and invest in their community. We become great communities because of the great people who live there.”
Take the First Step Toward Civic Leadership
Civic leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, working with others, and investing in your community. If you’re ready to make a difference, start today. Whether it’s attending your first meeting or volunteering for a local cause, your efforts will create a ripple effect that improves your community for years to come.
- Keywords: civic leadership, how to become a civic leader, community involvement, invest in your community, local leadership
