Summary...
- With a clearly documented process to recruit, select, and orient new board members, the board makes sure the ideal people are in place and have access to the right information to best serve the organization.
- Recruitment and selection of new board members focus on individuals with a strong commitment to the mission and success of the organization.
- The board needs to make certain individual board members do not have any undocumented conflicts of interest that would affect the nonprofit’s wellbeing.
- The board needs enough people serving to fulfill responsibilities, which includes clear leadership with officer positions. Board member and officer positions are outlined in writing.
Here are some questions to think about...
- What opportunities and challenges could the board prepare for through an intentional recruitment and selection process?
- How could better orientation help prepare new board members for their role overseeing and advocating for the nonprofit?
- What role does your nonprofit play in the community? How do you prepare board members to serve as ambassadors for the organization within the community?
Next steps...
- Scan through the Harvard Implicit Association Test Choose 2-3 tests to take and schedule some uninterrupted time to take the tests. Review your results and think about how your implicit biases may affect your selection of new board members.
- Review your nonprofit’s board orientation process. Then check out the following resources for more tips and practices to enhance your current process.
- National Council of Nonprofits – Board Orientation
- Joan Garry Consulting – A Template for a Great Board Orientation
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Chapter Materials
The Boards in Gear Guide includes information, activities, worksheets, and reflection questions. Use the guide on ...
Download this chapter's guide before watching the video.
Board Member Application Form Sample
A job description for board members, as well as officers, is helpful for current and prospective board members. ...
A checklist to follow when onboarding new board members.
Board Satisfaction Survey Sample
Use this template to create a learning and development plan for your board.
Sample Board Self Assessment from McKinsey
Use this template to map your board's demographic and experiential diversity to help inform your recruitment.
Use this worksheet to think about the artifacts, behaviors, and underlying values that make up your board's culture.
Read each question and think about whether this is something you currently do. If you answer yes to the following ...