There are many traits that can make a board member successful, from wealth and social connections to experience in a www.boardcontest.com/the-difference-between-management-governance-and-support/ specific area. But there are some intangibles that make a good director great and successful, for example, the ability to think outside of the box and remain dispassionate when discussing highly emotive topics.
Board members must also possess the necessary communication skills since they will be sharing sensitive information both inside and outside of meetings. Board members should be able to communicate effectively in both written and oral form. A successful board member must have a strong work ethics and an ambition for the organization to succeed.
A well-balanced mix of board members is crucial to a nonprofit’s success. A creative director can give a fresh perspective to issues which may be stuck or not being addressed properly. Additionally, the addition of an expert in finance can ensure that critical financial matters are looked at from a variety of angles.
The nominating committee must spend time ensuring that new board members are well-suited for the role, and have the required expertise and independence. A good nomination committee will search for candidates with a range of skills, including knowledge of the organization’s operations and strategy, as well as the stakeholder group. It is also crucial for the board to stay clear of overlaps in memberships, which can reduce its effectiveness.