Best Practices for Choosing Nonprofit Board Members
Selecting the right Board of Directors is crucial for the success and sustainability of your nonprofit organization. A strong, well-rounded Board ensures effective governance, supports fundraising efforts, and guides your nonprofit toward achieving its mission. Here are some considerations for choosing Board members who will make a meaningful impact.
1. Understand the Role of a Nonprofit Board
Before you begin selecting members, it’s important to understand the primary responsibilities of a nonprofit Board, which include:
Governance: Ensuring legal compliance and strategic oversight;
Fundraising: Contributing personally and helping secure resources;
Advocacy: Acting as ambassadors for your nonprofit's mission; and
Financial Oversight: Approving budgets, reviewing financial statements, and ensuring accountability.
2. Identify the Skills and Expertise You Need
Create a skills matrix to identify gaps in expertise and ensure your Board includes members with diverse talents, such as:
Legal expertise: To help with compliance and contracts;
Financial acumen: For budget oversight and audits;
Fundraising or grant-writing experience: To support development efforts;
Marketing and communications skills: To amplify your nonprofit’s message; and
Program-specific knowledge: Experts related to your nonprofit's mission (e.g., educators for an education nonprofit).
3. Seek Diversity and Inclusion
Diverse Boards are more innovative, effective, and reflective of the communities they serve. Consider diversity in terms of:
Professional background: Ensure varied perspectives and experiences;
Demographics: Represent different ages, races, genders, and socioeconomic statuses;
Geography: Include members from different locations if your nonprofit serves multiple areas.
4. Look for Passion and Commitment
Your Board members should be enthusiastic supporters of your mission. Look for candidates who:
Are personally invested in your nonprofit's cause;
Demonstrate a history of volunteering or nonprofit involvement; and
Have the time and willingness to actively participate in Board meetings, committees, and fundraising efforts.
5. Set Clear Expectations
Before recruiting Board members, outline their roles and responsibilities. Include:
Time commitment: Frequency of Board meetings and committee participation.
Fundraising obligations: Whether they are expected to make personal donations or help secure funding;
Ethical standards: Policies around conflicts of interest and confidentiality.
Providing a clear Board member job description ensures candidates understand what’s expected of them from the outset.
6. Leverage Networks for Recruitment
Finding the right candidates often starts with your existing connections. Consider:
Tapping into personal networks: Ask current Board members, staff, and volunteers for recommendations.
Engaging professional associations: Look for potential candidates in industry groups or nonprofit leadership circles.
Post openings publicly: Use platforms like LinkedIn to reach a broader audience.
7. Conduct Interviews and Vet Candidates
One-on-one conversations: Interview candidates to learn more about their interests, skills, and availability.
Reference checks: Ask for professional references to confirm their qualifications and commitment.
Trial involvement: Invite potential Board members to volunteer or join a committee before formally appointing them.
8. Ensure Alignment with Your Mission
Board members should align with your nonprofit’s values and mission. This ensures they will:
Advocate effectively for your cause;
Collaborate well with other Board members and staff;
Make decisions that prioritize the organization’s long-term success.
9. Prioritize Teamwork and Leadership Potential
Strong Board members should:
Work collaboratively with others;
Take initiative to lead committees or projects;
Communicate effectively to resolve conflicts and make strategic decisions.
10. Offer Orientation and Training
Once selected, set your Board members up for success with:
Orientation sessions: Introduce new members to your nonprofit’s mission, programs, and finances'
Ongoing education: Provide access to workshops, webinars, or conferences on nonprofit governance and fundraising;
Mentorship opportunities: Pair new members with experienced Board members.
11. Evaluate and Refresh the Board Regularly
A Board should evolve as the nonprofit grows. To maintain effectiveness:
Set term limits: This ensures new perspectives and prevents burnout;
Conduct evaluations: Assess individual and overall Board performance annually;
Plan for succession: Identify future leaders and create a pipeline for new members.
Conclusion
Building a strong nonprofit Board is an investment in the future of your organization. By following these best practices, you’ll create a dedicated and diverse group of leaders who can help your nonprofit thrive and achieve its mission.
Questions? Schedule a consultation with Ariella Law.
The information on this website is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.
