Chamber Leadership: board expectations

This is the third in a four-part series, based on the book, Stop The Non-Profit Board Blame Game, by Hardy Smith.

The book is segmented into four parts and this post addresses the title of this post and is part III of the book.

This section of the book rightly so addresses the importance of relationships between the CEO and the board and board members with their board member peers.

And what’s the best way to build these relationships? Open, honest and transparent communications with board members. For me, I personally don’t feel there is such a thing as over communicating.

Hardy goes on to discuss the role of recognition and appreciation of your board members, as well as, making sure your volunteers have a positive experience.

He finishes this section of the book by highlighting the importance of knowing your board members, board engagement and ways to achieve board diversity. And he’s not just talking about gender and race.

For a previous post on Board Relations and Leadership go HERE.

For more information on Hardy Smith, you can go to his website HERE.

This is the first in a four-part series, based on the book, Stop the Nonprofit Board Blame Game by Hardy Smith.

The book is segmented into four parts and this post addresses the title above.

Hardy talks about setting expectations for board members. Do they know what their role is as a board member? Do you have a job description for your potential new board members?

In my opinion, and noted in previous posts, it’s a must! Go HERE and HERE for two posts, on the subject of job descriptions, for your board.

He also discusses that the frustration can be from both sides, the staff and the volunteers.

Based on his research with volunteers, he’s identified seven categories of the biggest criticisms of board members; communication, expecting too much, conflict with staff, conflict within the board, wasted time, lack of organization and the wrong people.

While that’s a lot to unpack, his book gives practical advice on how to address each.

He finishes this section with a discussion on finding out why members say yes or no to serving on a nonprofit board.

For more information on Hardy Smith, you can go to his website HERE.