The best board member can make a an enormous difference in the success of your business. The board of directors is the face of your company, and the actions of the board members can influence the work you do. If a board member becomes difficult to reach, does not attend meetings, or exhibits an unsatisfactory relationship with your core values or the rest of the board, it could be time to consider replacing them.
A good board member is someone who believes in the mission of your organization. Passion for the issues your nonprofit is addressing will keep board members committed long after the initial excitement has faded. They should also possess some level of organizational or business expertise and an understanding of the basic principles of good business practice.
Look for people of different races, ages, backgrounds, skills and backgrounds to fill your board. This will give your board a diverse perspective and the ability to bring up new perspectives to your leadership. Board members should also be willing to play the role of devil’s advocate and ask questions about assumptions, even if those assumptions stem from their own personal experiences.
Ask potential board members how much time they can dedicate to the work of your committees and boards. Many people who express interest in joining a board are unaware of the commitment required to join and may not be able to fulfill the role effectively. During the process of vetting, you should be sure to identify any other commitments that may interfere with their ability to be on your board.