Find The Right Board, Your Organization Needs It

I went to a rewards ceremony/presentation hosted by my former university today, Indiana State University for those who ask, and they did a presentation on board members and how boards work effectively. This is in relation to nonprofit boards mind you, but it's something that carries weight for every kind of organization. I wanted to give you folks what I took away from their thoughts and how you can share this information with your friends to help their organizations strive.

A board is your organizations directors, that's why most of the time their called the "Board of Directors". In both nonprofit and for profit organizations, a board should be present for your success. They are the ultimate group to hold the boss or executive responsible for their duties. They are the biggest fans and cheerleaders of the cause. Without them, your organization is nothing.

Who's the Right Board Member

Unfortunately there is no template for the "perfect" board member. Each comes with their own qualities. However, a board requires some of these key features:

• Advocates of the cause
• Cheerleader of the organization
• Can easily reach out for fundraising through personal connections
• Believes in the mission and vision
• Is an avid supporter and user of the organization

Without these qualities you'll often find board members who are simply there for the notoriety and public perception that they care. This is bad, very bad for your organization. 

I'm sure most of you have dealt with this. You always have a few board members who are obviously there because they are either a crony of the Board President or because they are someone who works at somewhere important. These board members are a drain in your organization and they are holding you back. 

But how can you fix it? 

It's a little tough if you're an executive or a shareholder. However there are some ways that you can help. Firstly, you should see if the board's problems stem from the president or are the other board members. Once you've located the problem, it's on to the next step. 

This is where it can be tricky, especially if you're problem is the board president. If you're lucky enough to be in an organization that allows public voting and nomination of the board president, then you have the ability to vote them out. Hopefully getting the help of your friends and fellow supporters of the cause will get the bad president out. 

If you're not in an organization like that, then you have a few options. This could include:

• Impeachment by fellow board members
• Speaking with the President and suggesting they step down to save face
• Or; waiting for term limits to expire (if the Nonprofit Bylaws state a limit). 

If there is nothing in the bylaws that allows for impeachment or for term limits, then you should attempt to write them into the bylaws as soon as possible. If there is no way for you to get on the board, or a board member to get the bylaws ratified, then refer to your individual State's guidelines and nonprofit laws. 

What if it's not the President? 

This is when it's much easier. If it's just a board member, then chances are you'll be able to speak with other board members about the issue, and seek to replace them. You could possibly even have them removed if enough concerned citizens or shareholders come forward. 

Just remember, it might not happen overnight, but it's possible. 

What do you do after they are out? 

Seeking a replacement can be tough, but it's important to look for those qualities mentioned earlier. They are extremely important qualities for a board member. Seek out potential candidates by finding your biggest fans and biggest cheerleaders. 

Speak with potential board members, invite them to a meeting and see how much they care about the cause. Don't settle or just ask your friends. Ask everyone. There's a huge chance you're best board member is hiding under your nose. Just look around and get everyone involved in the search. The people who want to be involved will rise to the top, they'll be open about joining, and they'll be your organizations biggest advocates. 

How This Will Help

Once you have the right board in place many great things will happen. Not only will progress be made, but you'll have a board full of the organizations cheerleaders, spokespeople, fundraisers, and advocates of the cause. They'll increase the potential donor base, they'll bring in additional resources, and they'll become the people who lead the organization down the right path. 

You need them more than you realize. Having a group of your best friends be your board is never going to get your organization on the right track. 

The right board members will be your organizations gold mine. You just have to find them.