Leading a nonprofit is tough, especially when executives report to a board with little experience in the sector. Unlike corporate boards, nonprofit boards often need education and guidance, leaving already overextended leaders struggling to juggle board development with the day-to-day demands of running the organization.
Yet, when boards are properly engaged, they can become your strongest ambassadors and supporters. To explore this further, last month we asked nonprofit leaders what they wish they could tell their boards to inspire greater involvement and impact.
Here Are Their Answers
- I need more from you! I need you to open doors to new donors, make connections with corporate funders, and follow through on commitments.
- Don’t join a nonprofit board unless you have the time to serve.
- I am relying on you to understand the basics of board best practices. It’s tough to educate you on both our organization and on how to be a great board member in general.
- Please update the bylaws and adhere to them.
- While passion for a nonprofit’s mission is crucial, it alone is not sufficient for an effective board member. I need you to bring a variety of skills to the table and to understand governance principles, financial oversight, and strategy.
- Stop micromanaging and understand that your focus should be on the big picture.
- I need you to be able to make tough decisions that might not align with your personal passion, but are necessary for the greater good of the organization.
- Attend board meetings. They are the best way to stay engaged and understand what’s going on.
- To sustain our mission, it’s important that you are willing to leverage your networks to bring in resources, cultivate partnerships, and increase the organization’s visibility.
What Can Leaders Do?
Here’s the real rub: Many board members lack the experience or skills to fulfill the scope of their roles—and many nonprofit executives are navigating their own steep learning curve. This can lead to a “blind leading the blind” scenario.
To overcome this, nonprofit leaders should make board engagement a strategic priority—one they actively drive. Building a strong relationship with the board chair is key, as is bringing in the right support when needed. A board governance consultant can help you implement best practices and navigate tricky dynamics.
We’d love to help. As you look ahead to the new year, now is the perfect time to equip your board for success. Contact us to discuss a facilitated board orientation or other board education program tailored to your needs.