A good board member will be enthusiastic about the mission of your organization and have a strong network that includes donors, friends and colleagues. They are committed to completing their legal obligations and possess the grit required to confront difficult issues and establish a direction, even if it involves challenging other members of the board. They should also be creative and bring fresh ideas to the table.
Board members are responsible for a range of responsibilities, ranging from networking to fundraising to ensuring that materials for board meetings are reviewed and drafted prior to each meeting. The most effective board members take their duties seriously and are always prepared for meetings and events. They eagerly anticipate an agenda for a board or committee meeting and are quick to read reports and other documents prior to the date of the meeting. They record all meetings on their calendars, and create automatic reminders. They can be a huge resource for the board.
Board directors on top frequently see things that other board members do not. They can help the CEO think about the possible issues and pitfalls that could result from certain decisions, and encourage him to consider the future. They’re also happy to mentor other board members as well as be personally mentored.
The best board members are open to new ideas and have a perpetual desire to learn. They’re willing to attend educational programs designed for board members of nonprofit organizations, and take part in conferences and workshops that can help them better comprehend their responsibilities, and also connect with other board members who are learning. They’re also open to using technology tools that can assist them in their work. They’re also likely to adopt an online portal for the board that will streamline the flow of information and ensure that important documents are secure.
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