Have you been asked to be a board member for a nonprofit organization? Or maybe you’re looking for a way to make an impact from a new perspective? Either way, becoming a board member is exciting and can help you grow as a professional and an individual. Nonprofit organizations are always looking for board members. Due to term limits, growing needs, etc., there is a constant need for fresh, diverse, and dedicated folks who are ready to put in the work. However, these same organizations have a lot on their plate at any given time, so they may unintentionally rush through the recruitment process. As the prospective new board member, you can set the pace. Joining a board is a lot like dating. It’s easy to rush into things because they are shiny and new, but it’s better when you take your time and make sure there aren’t red flags. The goal is to find THE ONE and work together toward a shared mission.
Joining a board is like dating—but for business
The Meet Cute
Your eyes meet across the crowded room. Slowly, you drift toward each other knowing you’re meant to be… just kidding. Most likely, you have already met the organization whose board you’re considering joining. Maybe you’re already a donor or a volunteer, or maybe you’re connected through a staff member or current board member. Or maybe you don’t know much about the organization except that its mission aligns with your own. Either way, there’s a spark.
Do Your Research
We all do it – whether you match with someone on a dating app or meet them at the dog park, we look them up on social media. What are their interests? Who are our mutual friends? Nonprofit organizations do their research during recruitment, so you should too. It helps weed out some obvious red flags for both parties. Here are a few things you can do:
- Visit the organization’s website and social media – do you connect with their mission and work?
- Check out their financials – Guidestar.org is a great place to start.
- Talk to someone you know who currently or previously worked with the organization.
Will You Accept This Rose?
Once you’ve done your research, let the organization know if you’re interested in becoming a board member or not. Telling them you’re interested is not a commitment! You’ve just accepted the rose for this week’s episode. This is the step where a lot of folks get rushed into an elopement – you’ve said you’re interested and now you’re on the board! But if you want to make it work, take your time. Also, remember that you don’t have to accept that rose. Be direct if you feel you’re not a good match for each other. It will save you both a lot of time and energy and may open doors to other opportunities.
Write Your Notecards
So you’ve accepted the rose and made your interest known. Now it’s time to prepare for the big date. On a first date, you’d probably keep conversation light and fun. However, on this first date, it’s time to dig deep. Break out those notecards with thought-provoking questions. This is your chance to discuss what you like and what concerns you about the organization. Here are some of my favorite questions to ask when considering becoming a board member (you can find more through resources like boardsource.org):
- What is expected of me? This could be about time, money, relationships, etc. Asking to see the organization’s by-laws may lay it all out.
- How many board members do you currently have, and what’s their average tenure?
- What’s the financial health of the organization?
- How will I be a benefit to the organization?
Here’s a tip: take notes. Show the organization that you aren’t taking this lightly. The decision to join a board is a commitment to move the mission of the organization forward. It takes hard work and dedication, but the impact you will make is an incredible reward!
Pros & Cons List
You made it through the first date, hopefully without any spinach in your teeth or other embarrassing moments. It’s time to make your pros and cons list. Weigh your options based on what you’ve learned. Does the organization meet your expectations? Can you meet theirs? The organization is almost certainly doing this same analysis. If you feel like you need to do a little more information gathering, reach out to a current board member and pick their brain.
Are they THE ONE?
It’s decision time – the final rose ceremony. You’ve done your research, been on the big date, and made your pros and cons list. Hopefully, you have the information you need to make a decision that works for you. Nonprofit organizations love to hear a resounding YES!, but they won’t hold it against you if your answer is no. Deciding to become a board member is a commitment and both parties must be willing to put in the work. As a board member, you are committing to uphold and enhance the mission of an organization. If you don’t have the time, energy, or passion, then you should consider whether it’s THE ONE.
Another tip: If you’re feeling apprehensive, ask if you can serve on a committee. This is a great way to experience the work, see the expectations up close, and build relationships with others in the organization.
Committing to serve on the board of a nonprofit organization can be an amazing and rewarding experience. When you feel passionate about an organization and have a role in its mission, you will undoubtedly grow as an individual and a leader while making a positive impact on your community. So next time you’re considering joining a board, remember to take your time before accepting the rose.
Sarah E. Lynn | Development & Marketing Director | Habitat for Humanity of Frederick County
Sarah is a member of the Chamber’s Frederick Nonprofit Alliance. The Nonprofit Alliance is a vehicle for nonprofits to work together as a unified force in the community, enlightening local business, government and political leaders about the economic value of nonprofits in Frederick County.
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs, and initiatives, please visit our website.