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On Being a Board Member
Sometime during the coming year you may be asked to serve on the board of a non-profit organization.
Even though you may be an experienced board member, it's helpful to consider a number of questions before accepting. A good match between you and the organization will increase effectiveness
and satisfaction for both.
Is this the right organization for me?
- Ask yourself whether you truly feel strongly about the type of work that the organization does and the people it serves.
- Find out why you were asked to join and in what ways they expect to use you. It's possible that you can serve the organization better by not becoming a board member.
- Find out what their vision is and how they plan to accomplish it.
- Is this an organization with which you want to be identified, and would you be proud to have your name on their letterhead or in their brochure?
- Will service to the organization be a good investment of my time, talent and treasure?
What can I give and am I willing to do so?
What skills, experiences, contacts and perspectives do I have that will be useful to this organization? Consider what you bring to the table and whether you are willing to give that
to the organization. Look for projects or areas in which to apply your skills and make your requests known, rather than waiting for someone to just plug you in.
Am I ready for this commitment right now?
Some boards involve a fairly predictable and limited time commitment from their members, while others require a more intensive, hands-on
approach. Some organizations are relatively stable, whereas others face continual challenge or are forging new ground. Are you willing and able to do what will be needed? At a minimum, you
need to attend at least 75% of board and committee meetings.
What do I want to get out of it?
An all-too-common experience for board members at the end of their terms
is a feeling that the experience wasn't what they had hoped. Asking the right questions at the outset can help ensure a good match. "Give away your life; you'll find life given back, but
not merely given back--given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity." Luke 6:38 from The Message
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