Nonprofits: How to Avoid Problem Board Members in the First Place

Mar 28, 2011 10:00 PM ET

Alice Korngold's Blog

In a recent post, I advised nonprofit boards why and how to rid themselves of problem board members. Even better, there are ways to limit the likelihood of bringing problem board members on in the first place. You can also establish good board practices to cycle board members off at a dynamic pace; this mitigates the damage of problem board members, while also allowing you to keep the board fresh, diverse, and relevant.

Establish a rigorous board member recruitment and selection process.

  • Board composition: With leadership from the Board Governance Committee (formerly known as a Nominating Committee), determine the ideal size of your board, as well as the qualifications and qualities you are looking for in the mix of your board members. The size and composition should be based on the organization's mission, as well as the vision of what your nonprofit seeks to accomplish and the revenue model to achieve success. Consider the experience, expertise, backgrounds, perspectives, and networks that will help the board to get the organization from where it is to where it wants to be.

     

For continuation, see here on Fast Company...http://bit.ly/hRO2BL

 

Korngold Consulting LLC assists corporations in building fully integrated, high-impact CSR strategies, including leadership development through nonprofit board service.  Korngold Consulting trains and places business executives on nonprofit boards, and consults to nonprofit boards and leaders to strengthen governance for financial and strategic success. 

AK12682