When new leaders are selected, it is essential that they receive immediate information that will help them get started. Proper training lays the groundwork for success in their leadership roles. This training will help new leaders understand what is expected and establish effective meeting patterns so that the boys and their families can enjoy a quality program from the start.

As the first step in the training continuum, Fast Start Training is meant to provide all the information and resources for new leaders to conduct their first meeting, along with guidance for the meetings that follow. All new leaders receive the Fast Start materials as soon as they are recruited and are encouraged to participate in Basic Leader Training and roundtables.

Self-study, rather than group training, is the preferred method for Fast Start Training. This gives the new leader the opportunity to learn at his or her own pace.

Video-Based Training

Fast Start is a short, video-based training program designed to provide specific meeting planning information related to the leader's volunteer position. The video demonstrates actual meetings that new leaders may use as models for conducting their own first meetings. The Leader Fast Start Viewer Guide is used with the video to enhance learning and provide an additional resource that stays with the leader. The viewer guide includes this same information in written form, providing a "road map" for planning the first meeting.

The Fast Start video is available from the local council service center on videocassette and CD-ROM.

Internet-Based Training

This interactive computer-based training uses a different format than the videos, but it delivers the same information. It is an additional resource that packs can use to ensure that all leaders have an opportunity to complete Fast Start Training as soon as possible, and it will always be available to leaders who would like to retake the course to refresh their knowledge and keep up-to-date.

Follow-Up

The video, viewer guide, and online training are designed to be used alone by the new leader, but it is a good idea for someone from the unit (or, for new units, from the district) to contact the new leader within two or three days to find out how things are going and to answer any questions. This is also a good time to invite the new leader to participate in roundtables and Basic Leader Training.