In the years I have been a nonprofit consultant, I have partnered with hundreds of organizations in the area of board governance. I like to start workshops by asking participants to describe their board in ONE word. I hear a variety of words like: passionate, committed. I also hear.. disengaged, checked out, under-utilized, unfocused.
When I probe those less-than-optimal descriptors, what often comes to light is that the structures and supports to engage board members effectively are not well developed.
What are effective strategies for board engagement?
As the Governance Chair for the YWCA Madison board, I promote the use of best practices in board engagement.
1. Develop a board composition matrix: As an organization, discuss the desired attributes, skills and experience that will strengthen the oversight of the organization. With a comprehensive matrix, invite board members to complete the matrix to create an accurate scan of the existing expertise and areas for recruitment. It is important to understand what talents board members possess and how they can contribute to the mission impact of the organization. A board member may have been recruited as an accountant, yet in previous chapters of their career, they worked in monitoring and evaluation. Without a board composition matrix, that talent may go untapped. There are various designs of a board composition matrix. Here is one template to support your thought process.
2. Establish appropriate board committees: Involving board members through committees is an excellent way of taking advantage of everyone’s talents and expertise. Committees are most effective when the board clearly defines their work. Annually, the board should review the committee structure to determine which committees should be constituted to accomplish the work. There are generally several standing committees named in the bylaws (Executive, Governance, Finance), and the flexibility of the board to appoint committees as necessary. BoardSource, the leader in nonprofit governance, has some excellent resources on Structuring Board Committees.
3. Qualities of effective committees: An effective committee has the following qualities:
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- A clear charter and work plan
- A chair that can facilitate meetings well and involve all members in the work
- Members who are committed and accountable to accomplish their tasks
- An understanding that committees do not make decisions; rather they advise, recommend, or carry out a task
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If I asked you to describe the nonprofit board you serve on in one word, what would it be? If it isn’t engaged…impactful…effective.. let’s connect to explore how to move your organization to greatness by having a great board!
For more information on nonprofit governance, check out one of these blog posts:
What Sombrero are You Wearing?
Every great nonprofit begins with a great board