“Are you interested in joining our nonprofit’s board?”
This question has been posed to me a lot recently. Maybe it’s my age or my reputation in the nonprofit sector.
Occasionally, I hear from those who are interested in joining a board themselves. Some want to make their resume look better. Some genuinely want to make a difference. Either way, I always inquire as to what they think constitutes an outstanding board member.
Here are my favorite characteristics of an outstanding board member
- Pre-existing passion for the cause
- Eagerness to participate at every meeting
- Willing to prepare ahead for meetings
- Anxious to serve on committees
- Ability and propensity to give above average financially
- Strong desire for stewardship to others
- Supportive, but willing to express their own opinion
- Strives to learn as much as possible
How many of these does your board have individually? How many do you have as a board member?
Knowledge isn’t everything
Many people believe it is some vast knowledge about the mission or the law or finances or fundraising that signifies a strong potential board member. Don’t get me wrong, all of that knowledge can be a huge asset. However, they must be accompanied by the proper mindset.
All board members should bring a passion for the mission of the organization.
The reason for the above conclusion is first hand experience watching board members, who could have been phenomenal based upon their knowledge or background in the particular charity’s cause or the law or finance or fundraising who were terrible board members.
We have all seen it happen where a “can do” attitude and/or a strong work ethic trumps vast amounts of knowledge or experience. Think of times you have seen this at your place of employment or within a pure volunteer project or on some type of team event.
Mindset is everything
The “heart” of the team or the catalyst for success often can be traced back to the least likely person based upon knowledge. They make the difference based upon the proper mindset being ever present, and as such, leading to extra efforts and a contagious spirit for everyone.
Please think about these attributes as you search for future board members for your organization or use as a self-test prior to raising your hand as a possible board member. Just think how wildly successful every board would be if each and every member possessed all eight attributes!
Did I miss any? Let me know in the comments below!
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