Building a Board of Directors

What Are the Responsibilities of Board Members?

One of the fundamental challenges that many board members face is a lack of understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Much of the board recruitment time is spent focusing on the vision and mission of the organization and the discussion on specific board and fiduciary responsibilities comes later in the process. (Biz Tip: You’re a Board Member! Now What?)

All board members should have an accurate understanding of their roles. These are the eight primary board responsibilities.

Why is it Important to Recruit New Board Members?

An effective board of directors has a range of diversity in talents, ages, backgrounds, and experiences. This broad demographic will assist you in meeting your goals and uphold your mission and vision. Board recruiting should not focus on a certain demographic, but it should also consider the range of abilities each member brings to the organization. A diverse board creates a powerful dynamic with an array of perspectives.

As you recruit new members, assess their skills in these areas:

• Communication and Leadership
• Financial Management/Budgeting
• Legal Experience
• Marketing and Program Development
• Strategic Planning

Creating term limits for board members will help continuously bring in new members with varying expertise levels to keep your board from becoming stale and status-quo. As board members reach their term limits, factor in the diversity gaps that will occur and recruit new board members that will maintain your overall diversity goals.

How Can Your Organization Benefit from Board Governance Training?

Your board of directors is a leadership team that needs the most effective tools to help your organization succeed. Training will ensure your board agrees with the roles and responsibilities related to governance and understands the practical application to provide your organization with the best chance of success. A formal training program sets the expectations of all board members. Training should include the role of the board in leading the organization, their basic responsibilities, their fundraising obligations, and legal considerations.