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Improve the Bottom Line - Serve on a Committee!
by David O. Nuffer
In an article in the Wall Street Journal, the owner of a small business in Illinois explained why he tells his
employees to get involved in volunteer organizations. “They learn more in a few years of volunteer activity than they will learn in 25 years on the job.” He said that every skill learned
in volunteer work transfers to his business. Transferring skills makes the employee think about those skills in new ways. Presentation technique, planning, issue and task identification
and management, teamwork, delegation and reporting all apply in the business and volunteer settings. Scouting Leaders, Heart Fund Drive volunteers, Library Aides, and Hospice workers all
learn things that make them better in business.
Bar Committees provide a unique opportunity to learn and practice skills that carry into law practice and employment. Volunteerism in a law-related setting increases personal networks,
creates opportunities to learn from other lawyers, and can develop substantive knowledge. Working with the best and leading lawyers gives insights into successful practice and life skills.
Bar Committees are where the work of the Bar gets done. Sections, by contrast, are interest groups or practice areas. Key work of the Bar must be done by Committees. Each Committee meets
on a different schedule, depending on its mission and composition. Each Committee has a chair and some have other officer positions to help committee members rotate through leadership
opportunities.
The newly formed Appointments Committee (consisting of Bar Commissioners) screens applications and recruits potential committee members. Consideration is given to diversity in all aspects
(gender, geography, practice area, firm size, race, years in practice, type of employment). Take a look at the Bar Committee list and submit a letter expressing interest in several
committees and a summary of your background to the Appointments Committee. appointments @utahbar.org; or fax c/o Appointments Committee 801-531-0660.
Committee service is a great way to get outside the practice experience, work with lawyers you might not normally meet, and contribute to the profession. I will look forward to working
with you!
Wall Street Journal __________________-, Howard Isenberg, CCL Custom Manufacturing, Niles IL.
Utah Bar Committees
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