The smooth transition of outgoing and incoming board members and officers is of vital importance and can determine the PTA's success for years to come. The transition process is the responsibility of both incoming and outgoing officers and board members. It gives closure to those leaving their positions and allows those coming in to be properly prepared. A good process of transition provides an opportunity for outgoing members to evaluate their work and efforts while giving suggestions to new board members on what they wish they had done differently. Outgoing officers should prepare all materials, records, and resources before turning them over. Encourage new officers to attend PTA trainings, especially the state and national conventions. Local, district, and regional PTAs often hold job-specific workshops tailored to unit needs. Participating in training serves to connect new leaders to a network of experienced leaders who can act as mentors during the year. An orientation and planning meeting for a new executive board helps a PTA jumpstart the year by offering an opportunity to share ideas, review PTA resources, and create a working calendar. Agreeing on ground rules for board meetings, priorities in working styles, and preferences for types and timing of communication will set the stage for a productive team effort. Outgoing officers should give support and information when requested, but they should remember that there is more than one way to do every job. Encourage those who follow to develop their own leadership style. The best reputation PTA leaders can have is to be known as good mentors who taught their successors well and provided the preparation needed for their PTA's continued success.