Jean Roberts

There are some key questions to ask before accepting or offering nomination to the governing body of a nonprofit organisation – and this checklist is a start.

These questions relate to ten basic strategies which, if introduced and operating effectively, could improve your chances of becoming an effective Board or Committee member within a short space of time.

When speaking to a Board Member or the Senior Staff Person about potential Board membership, ask (in your own words) for evidence that these ten basic strategies are alive and well at Board-level:

1. acceptance of the fact that the organisation is in the business of providing programs or services for a specific client or member base, or to address specific needs,
2. acceptance of the fact that the organisation’s survival depends upon financial viability and operational  effectiveness,
3. a pro-active approach to the nature and predictability of risk,
4. a consistent and effective internal decision-making procedure,
5. an effective working relationship between the Board and CEO/senior staff position,
6. a clear statement of delegation of authority to the CEO or senior paid staff member regarding management of the affairs and activities of the organisation,
7. development of strategic and business plans based on a factual analysis of financial and operational obligations, opportunities and challenges… with realistic and achievable budget estimates and cashflow projections as a basis for a set of agreed financial and operational performance indicators,
8. effective networking at Board or Committee – as well as CEO – levels,
9. internal recognition of staff and volunteer achievement and effort - taking time to celebrate achievement and effort, and
10. a long-term succession strategy in place for Board or Committee office-bearers, members, CEO and key staff.