As business owners, many of us currently serve on a nonprofit boards for will soon be asked to serve. Serving as a board member is a great way to support the work of a nonprofit organization and make positive differences in the community.
As a former nonprofit executive, the challenge I encountered most often was people not understanding their role. Now as a consultant, one of my biggest challenges working with nonprofits are board members who don’t understand their role.
There are three things a board of directors is responsible for:
1. All financial decisions.
2. Managing the Executive Director.
3. Fundraising.
Unless the nonprofit is staffed with volunteers, a board member should never be involved in the day-to-day operations or employee issues, unless asked by the executive director or the issue concerns the executive director’s performance. One of the most harmful obstacles the board can do is not fully support the executive director.
Here are my top 10 tips to being a great board member:
1. Commitment. An involved board member is committed to the organization and its mission and is willing to put in the time and effort to make a difference.
2. Diversity of experience and perspective. A good board, made up of people with a variety of experiences and perspectives, is essential for making sound decisions and increases the organization’s sphere of influence.
3. Knowledge and expertise. A great board member has knowledge and expertise in the organization’s industry or field, helping the board make informed decisions.
4. Leadership. A great board member is a leader who is able to motivate and inspire others to achieve common goals.
5. Communication. A great board member is able to communicate effectively with the board, management and other stakeholders.
6. Integrity. A great board member is honest and ethical. They act in the best interests of the organization and its stakeholders.
7. Objectivity. A great board member is objective and are able to set aside their own personal biases. They must be able make decisions based on what is best for the organization.
8. Trustworthiness. A great board member is trustworthy, reliable and always follows through.
9. Growth mindset. A great board member has a growth mindset, always learning new details and ideas.
10. Accountable. A great board member is committed to accountability and is willing to be held accountable for their decisions and actions.
Sara Orellana, MS, MPH is an independent entrepreneur who specializes in strategic planning, leadership, and grant writing. She can be reached at sara@3raptorconsulting.com.