managing a nonprofit is often a position that is a volunteer for people with a deep passion for the cause. While the work can be rewarding but it’s not always easy. One of the most difficult aspects of the job is board management. Board members can be easily distracted by the larger scope of their tasks and forget the nitty-gritty aspects that are required to ensure that the organization runs smoothly. This can be manifested in large ways, like decisions regarding the hiring of an Executive Director, or in the smallest ones, like making a decision on the price for a featured service.
There are a variety of resources that can help board members efficiently manage their responsibilities. According to the Secure Due Diligence Rooms 2015 guide Leading with Intent, some of the most frequently-asked board tasks include financial oversight, fundraising as well as community-building and advocacy. It is vital that every member of the board understands the responsibilities they have and is able to fulfill them effectively.
To boost performance, boards can be organized into different committees. A committee for fundraising events, for instance might be tasked with planning events and managing the donor database. Another committee could be responsible for recruiting new members and orienting them and also conducting performance evaluations for the board. A third committee could focus on the internal processes and operations of the board, including the creation of policies. A fourth committee could concentrate on governance.
Whatever the structure of a board, it should be well-staffed and equipped with the tools needed to streamline the board’s responsibilities and promote open communication and transparency. For instance, software for boards can help streamline the logistics of meetings and make it easier for members to stay on top of their duties by allowing them to reduce time spent in board meetings by central agendas, email notifications, and more.
(0)