What Makes a Great Board Member?
An Entrepreneur recently asked me to describe what makes a top board member. Good boards require members with a vast network in the industry as well as a thorough knowledge of a particular issue or challenge and strong connections within the finance industry. While these attributes are essential but the following qualities are often left out in the search for board members who are good – a dedication to the cause, the ability to listen and communicate with humility and a desire to go the extra mile are also crucial to ensure that a board performs at its best.
A great nonprofit board is adamant about its mission and shows that passion in their actions. If that’s through taking part in fundraising walks or helping out at events or attempting to contact city legislators The board member is committed to helping those individuals they serve. This trait cannot be taught and it’s one that can be the difference between a successful or unsuccessful the board.
A good judgment is a prerequisite to serve on any board and is particularly crucial in governance for nonprofits. A board that has had a bad track record (whether in the process of approving strategies, hiring or firing, or M&A transactions) is doing the organization an injustice. Good judgment is the result of wisdom, which is the result of making a variety of difficult decisions, making mistakes and having a lot of knowledge.
The last thing I believe is a requirement for a great board member is a grasp of the importance of cooperation. The most effective board members are aware that their success depends on their ability to work in a team regardless of whether it’s at an annual board meeting or fundraising events. They spend the time to build alliances among their fellow board members.
