Serving on a board can be a rewarding experience, but not all board members make the same impact. To truly excel and become what some call a “rockstar board member,” individuals must embrace specific strategies that enhance their effectiveness while contributing positively to the organization.
Understanding Board Dynamics
Every board has its own personality shaped by its history, politics, and operational style. New members often enter with fresh ideas but may overlook the established dynamics. Instead of rushing in with changes, seasoned members suggest a more measured approach. Observing and listening during the first few months allows new members to grasp the nuances of the board’s culture.
Michelle C. Herting, a CPA specializing in succession planning and estate taxes, emphasizes the importance of understanding why decisions were made in the past. Engaging with board minutes, financial documents, and bylaws can provide invaluable context. By doing so, members can avoid unnecessary disruptions and contribute more meaningfully from the outset.
Building Supportive Relationships
A fundamental aspect of being a successful board member is knowing whom to support. While many members may express vague intentions to “support the organization,” a rockstar board member takes a more proactive stance. This entails building relationships with key individuals, particularly the executive director. Inviting them to lunch or spending time understanding their challenges fosters a collaborative environment.
Moreover, engaging with staff at all levels can yield insights that may not be captured in official reports. Treating staff members with kindness and respect—and even bringing snacks—can enhance morale and open lines of communication. This approach not only helps in identifying areas needing improvement but also strengthens the board’s connection to the organization’s mission.
Respecting Time and Efficiency
Time management is critical in board meetings, where lengthy discussions can lead to frustration. Rockstar board members recognize the importance of keeping meetings efficient. They advocate for adhering to agendas, utilizing tools such as Robert’s Rules of Order, and ensuring meetings conclude on time.
Members who contribute to maintaining focus during discussions are often viewed as leaders, even if they do not hold formal leadership positions. Respecting the time of fellow board members demonstrates professionalism and enhances the overall productivity of the board.
Innovating and Leading Initiatives
Taking on leadership roles, whether as an officer or committee chair, comes with a responsibility to guide the organization effectively. Rockstar members do not merely review financial reports—they actively seek to understand the organization’s performance metrics. Utilizing resources like Charity Navigator and Candid can help assess operational efficiency and donor engagement.
When proposing new initiatives, these proactive members are also willing to lead the projects they suggest. By taking responsibility for implementation, they alleviate the burden on staff and demonstrate true commitment to the organization’s success.
Expanding Board Capacity
A typical board member might recommend a friend for a position when the nomination committee seeks new members. In contrast, a rockstar board member might advocate for the creation of an advisory board. This group of community leaders and former board members can provide valuable insights and support without the formal responsibilities of board membership.
Advisory boards can meet periodically to discuss the organization’s programs and achievements, fostering a deeper community connection. Such initiatives not only enhance the board’s capacity but can also lead to future donations and new board member recruitment.
In the words of comedian and activist Lily Tomlin, “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.” Rockstar board members embody this sentiment by actively supporting those on the front lines, bringing in resources and ideas that propel the organization forward.
By adopting these strategies, board members can transform their roles from passive participants to dynamic contributors, leaving the organizations they serve in a stronger position than when they began.