Why is this important?
An engaged board is an essential component of a thriving and impactful mission-driven organization. Consider incorporating some of the tactics below into the Board Development part of your strategic plan — this way you can map out what to tackle near-term vs. Y2 or Y3.
TIP #1: Reflect on Your Overall Strategic Goals
Your board of directors should be in alignment with your organization’s strategic goals. Consider a board matrix exercise to identify gaps in skills and representation in order to recruit smarter not harder.
TIP #2: Assess Your Board’s Strengths & Weaknesses
Strategic approaches include: 1) Conduct a Board Member Self-Assessment, 2) Have a board-specific SWOT Analysis discussion, and 3) Conduct a Board Evaluation
TIP #3: Clearly Communicate Expectations
Ensure you have a Roles & Responsibilities document that is reviewed and referenced regularly. This can be a checklist or an agreement. Introduce this during onboarding and store it in a central location.
TIP #4: Reconnect Members to Your Mission
Strengthen your “mission moments” muscle memory: 1) Add a 5-minute “Mission Moment” standing agenda item, 2) Invite your board members in regularly to see your impact first-hand, 3) Share your impact story in a visually appealing way.
Tip #5: Reconnect Members to Each Other
People show up for teammates. Build camaraderie by exploring a “board buddy” tactic, setting up board triads, or holding a half-day retreat.
Tip #6: Offer Board Training
Whether it’s a free webinar or an in-person session, board members need to know their legal duties.
Tip #7: Use a Board Portal
Make it easy for your members to access information 24/7 and be prepared for meetings. Save administrative time and eliminate hundreds of unnecessary emails.
By: Christine Deska, President & Co-founder, BellesBoard & Nonprofit Sector Strategies