A board’s responsibility includes the oversight of a healthy internal culture. When board members behave courteously and respectfully toward each other and towards management, they set an example for staff to emulate. The culture of the board is part of the “tone at the top.”
The other day I heard from the president of a local nonprofit. She shared with me what she has found are the keys to being a successful contributor on a nonprofit board. Mostly it’s about culture.
Here is her 10-part list:
1. Always be on time.
2. Always be prepared.
3. Always be courteous.
4. Always pay attention to the views of others.
5. Always express appreciation for the work of others.
6. Always be willing to give credit to others.
7. Always make sure that everyone feels heard.
8. Always check in with people both as individuals and as professionals.
9. Always make yourself available to provide advice and guidance.
10. Always take the long view.
I thought this list would be valuable to share with my readers, whether you’re on a board or working with a board.
- Do you work with nonprofit boards (or are you a board member)?
- What would you add to this list?