Successful advising should keep in mind the expectations of individual organization members, as well as the the organization as a whole. Setting expectations and communicating up front can help a ton, but folks don't always know where to start.
Expectations may vary based on the type of RSO and the advisor. RSO and advisor expectations may also vary from year to year, and person to person. Advisors and student leaders should connect regularly to determine the appropriate expectations that apply. At a minimum advisors should:
• Be available to the officers and/or members of the RSO for advising and required approving of documents.
• Assist both the old and new leadership in transitions and provide historical continuity.
• Ensure your organization properly registers newly-elected officers each year, and that those officers attend Annual Orientation.
• Assist the group with reviewing and updating the constitution every couple of years.
• Allow the student leadership to exercise primary decision-making authority with regard to organization goals, objectives, and activities within the limitations of the expectations above.
• Meet with organization officers and members as determined by the organization.
• Assist the organization in developing goals and planning projects or events.
• Empower members of the organization to become better leaders and advance the work of the organization or group.
Advisors and students are encouraged to develop a list of their own expectations for each other. For a helpful checklist of expectations you can discuss with your officers check out this link: https://involved.unl.edu/soar/docs/Student%20Leader%3AAdvisor%20Worksheet.pdf
More details at: https://go.unl.edu/9xoq