The Ultimate Guide To Building A Dream Board

by Michael Barrick / September 18, 2024

Let’s Build the Nonprofit Board of Your Dreams!

Does your board feel like it’s stuck in neutral? Maybe they’re asleep at the wheel—completely checked out. Or perhaps they’re too involved, micromanaging every little decision, and making progress feel impossible. Even worse, some might be using their position for personal gain, disconnected from the mission that matters most.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Many nonprofits struggle with boards that are disengaged or misaligned. But here’s the reality: You don’t have to settle for a board that’s underperforming. You can turn things around, and it’s easier than you think.

Your board can go from stagnant to dynamic, from ineffective to influential. All it takes is the right plan.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through the exact steps to build the ideal board for your organization. A board that’s not only aligned with your mission but equipped with the right expertise, energy, and commitment to help your nonprofit thrive.

Ready to transform your board and your organization? Let’s get started!

Step 1: Board Recruitment Foundation Steps

The first step in building a successful board is understanding that recruitment isn’t just about filling seats. You need to be strategic and thoughtful about who you bring on.

Who’s in Charge of Board Recruitment?
Typically, a governance committee takes the lead on recruitment, but that doesn’t mean the rest of the board should sit back. Everyone should be involved in keeping an eye out for potential candidates who align with your mission. The more engaged your board is in recruitment, the better your chances of finding the right people.

Assessing Your Board’s Stage
Before diving into recruitment, it’s essential to understand where your board is in its lifecycle. Are you a new organization looking to build from the ground up? Or a more established nonprofit that needs experienced hands? Knowing this will help you determine the types of people you should be recruiting.

What Kind of Board Do You Need?
Every board is different. Some are hands-on (working boards), some provide advice (advisory boards), and some focus on governance. Knowing what kind of board you need is key in determining the types of people you should be seeking out.

Aligning Board Members with Your Mission
Ultimately, your board members should be passionate about your mission. Before you start recruiting, take a look at your organization’s goals and challenges. What kind of people will help you achieve those goals? Make sure your recruitment strategy is aligned with your mission and the needs of the organization.

Section 2: Preparing for Board Recruitment

Recruiting the right board members requires a well-thought-out plan. It’s not something you can just leave to chance.

Setting Up a Recruitment Process
Before you start looking for new members, it’s important to outline a clear recruitment process. This includes defining the steps involved, who’s responsible for each task, and how decisions will be made. A solid plan will keep everyone on the same page and make the process smoother.

Defining Your Target Audience
Think about the ideal candidates for your board. What skills, experiences, and connections do they need to bring to the table? Are you looking for someone with financial expertise, a background in nonprofit leadership, or deep community ties? Knowing who you’re targeting will help you focus your recruitment efforts.

What Makes a Great Board Member?
Not everyone is cut out for board service. You want people who are dedicated, strategic thinkers, and team players. Defining the qualities of an ideal board member will help you spot the right candidates when you see them.

Creating a Recruitment Plan
Once you know who you’re looking for, formalize your recruitment plan. Include timelines, the roles different people will play in the process, and how you’ll approach potential candidates. A plan keeps things organized and makes it easier to track your progress.

Developing Recruitment Materials
Your recruitment materials should clearly explain your nonprofit’s mission and why board service is a valuable opportunity. Whether it’s a brochure or a simple one-pager, make sure it highlights what makes your organization unique and the impact potential members can have by joining your board.

Step 3: Recruiting Board Members

Now it’s time to actually start finding the right people.

Leverage Your Network
The best board members often come from your existing network. Encourage your current board members, staff, and supporters to refer people who might be a good fit. Word of mouth is powerful when it comes to board recruitment.

Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Platforms like LinkedIn are great for expanding your reach. You can find potential candidates who may not be in your immediate circle but align with your mission and have the skills you’re looking for.

Involve Current Board Members
Your current board members should be actively involved in the recruitment process. They know what it takes to serve on your board and can help identify people who would be a good fit. Ask them to tap into their personal and professional networks.

Don’t Underestimate Referrals
Sometimes, the perfect board member is just a conversation away. Encourage your staff, volunteers, and even donors to refer people they think would be an asset to the board.

LinkedIn for Nonprofit Board Recruitment
LinkedIn is a treasure trove for board recruitment. You can search for professionals with specific skills and interests that align with your organization’s needs, making it a powerful tool in your recruitment arsenal.

Build Relationships Early
Don’t wait until you’re in a pinch to start recruiting. Build relationships with potential board members well in advance. Invite them to your events or set up informal meetings to introduce them to your organization. When the time comes to fill a seat, they’ll already be familiar with your mission.

Developing Recruitment Materials
Your recruitment materials should clearly explain your nonprofit’s mission and why board service is a valuable opportunity. Whether it’s a brochure or a simple one-pager, make sure it highlights what makes your organization unique and the impact potential members can have by joining your board.

Step 4: Evaluating & Electing Board Members

You’ve got some great candidates lined up—now what? It’s time to evaluate them and make your final decision.

Initial Evaluation and Conversation
Start with a friendly, yet focused conversation. This is your chance to gauge a candidate’s passion for your mission and their fit for the board. Dive deep into their background, interests, and what drives them. This isn’t just a formality; it’s about finding that spark that aligns with your organization’s goals.

Using a Board Recruitment Matrix Worksheet
Next up, it’s time for some serious analysis. Grab a Board Recruitment Matrix Worksheet and start filling it out. This tool will help you evaluate candidates objectively by mapping their skills and attributes against your board’s needs. It’s your secret weapon for ensuring you’ve got a balanced and dynamic board.

Key Meeting Points with Candidates
When you meet with candidates, make sure to hit these key points: their experience, their vision for your board, and how they plan to contribute. Ask about their past successes and challenges. This is where you’ll see if they’re ready to step up and make a real impact.

Final Steps Before Nomination
Before you hit that ‘nominate’ button, ensure every detail is in place. Review their background, confirm their commitment, and make sure all necessary paperwork is completed. This is your final chance to cross-check and ensure everything’s ready for a smooth nomination process.

Developing the Final Slate
With your candidates vetted and ready, it’s time to develop the final slate. This means selecting the candidates who best fit your needs and preparing their profiles for presentation. This is where you put together the dream team for your board.

Nominate and Elect New Board Members
It’s go time! Nominate and elect your new board members. Make it official and celebrate the new additions to your team. This is where your efforts come to fruition, and you start seeing the new energy and expertise they bring to your board.

Board Recruitment Matrix Worksheet
Don’t forget to keep that Board Recruitment Matrix Worksheet handy. Use it throughout the process to ensure you’re making informed decisions and maintaining a balanced, effective board. This worksheet is your go-to guide for a successful board recruitment journey.

Step 5: Onboarding New Board Members

Onboarding new board members isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about integrating them into your organization and setting them up for success. Here’s how to make their transition seamless and impactful:

Orientation and Training
Start strong with a comprehensive orientation and training program. This is where you lay the foundation, introducing new members to your organization’s history, mission, and strategic goals. Make it engaging and informative—this is their first real dive into what makes your nonprofit tick.

Defining Expectations and Responsibilities
Clear expectations and responsibilities are crucial. Outline what’s expected in their role, including their duties, meeting schedules, and any committees they might join. This clarity helps prevent confusion and ensures everyone knows their role in driving the organization forward.

Providing Resources and Support
Equip your new members with the right tools and support to thrive. This includes access to necessary documents, key contacts, and any training materials they might need. The more prepared they are, the quicker they’ll get up to speed and contribute effectively.

Fostering Open Communication and Collaboration
Create a culture of open communication from the get-go. Encourage new board members to ask questions, share ideas, and collaborate with existing members. An open dialogue helps build relationships and ensures everyone is aligned and working together towards common goals.

The Board Orientation Binder
A well-organized Board Orientation Binder is a must-have. Fill it with essential information like organizational policies, strategic plans, and key contacts. This binder becomes a valuable reference tool that new members can consult as they get acquainted with their new role.

The Board Orientation Session
Host a dynamic Board Orientation Session. This is more than a presentation; it’s an opportunity for interaction and engagement. Include a mix of presentations, Q&A sessions, and informal meet-and-greets. This helps new members feel welcomed and integrated into the team.

Board Management Software
Leverage Board Management Software to streamline your onboarding process. This tool helps manage communications, share documents, and coordinate meetings efficiently. It’s a game-changer for keeping everyone organized and ensuring new members have everything they need at their fingertips.

By focusing on these key areas, you’ll ensure your new board members hit the ground running and contribute effectively to your mission.

Step 6: Evaluating and Maintaining the Board

Maintaining a high-functioning board is an ongoing journey. Regular evaluations and proactive improvements keep your board dynamic, effective, and aligned with your mission. Here’s how to ensure your board remains a powerhouse of performance:

Assessing Board Performance
Start by evaluating how well your board is performing. Are meetings productive? Are strategic goals being met? Use metrics and feedback to gauge effectiveness and identify strengths and weaknesses. This is your starting point for driving improvement.

Identifying Areas for Improvement
Once you’ve assessed performance, pinpoint areas needing improvement. This could involve anything from better meeting management to enhancing member engagement. Understanding these gaps helps you focus your efforts where they’ll make the biggest impact.

Encouraging Ongoing Engagement and Development
Engagement doesn’t end after onboarding. Encourage ongoing development by providing regular training and opportunities for professional growth. This keeps board members motivated and enhances their ability to contribute effectively.

Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement
Create an environment where continuous improvement is the norm. Encourage feedback, celebrate successes, and address challenges openly. A culture of ongoing enhancement ensures your board adapts and evolves to meet new challenges.

Board Evaluations: Comprehensive Self-Assessment For Effectiveness and Performance
Implement a comprehensive self-assessment process for your board. This involves regular evaluations where members reflect on their performance and contributions. This self-awareness is crucial for personal and collective growth.

Understanding the Purpose of Board Evaluations
Board evaluations aren’t just a formality—they’re a tool for growth. They help you understand how well your board is functioning, align it with your mission, and make necessary adjustments. Recognize these evaluations as a critical part of maintaining a high-performing board.

Conducting a Board Evaluation: The Process
Conducting an evaluation involves several steps: preparing the evaluation criteria, gathering feedback, and analyzing results. Ensure the process is structured and transparent to get the most accurate and actionable insights.

How Often Should Board Evaluations Be Conducted?
Regularity is key. Aim to conduct board evaluations annually, or more frequently if needed. This keeps performance fresh in everyone’s mind and allows for timely adjustments to improve effectiveness.

Embracing the Journey
View the evaluation process as a journey, not a destination. Embrace the continuous cycle of assessment and improvement as a way to build a stronger, more effective board over time.

Individual Board Member Performance Self-Evaluation
Encourage individual board members to evaluate their own performance. This self-reflection helps them understand their strengths and areas for improvement, leading to more effective contributions.

Nonprofit Whole Board Evaluations
Whole board evaluations provide a comprehensive view of the board’s collective performance. This approach ensures that the board as a whole is functioning effectively and aligned with organizational goals.

Instructions for Whole Board Evaluation
Follow a structured approach for whole board evaluations. Set clear criteria, gather feedback from all members, and analyze the results to get a complete picture of board performance.

How to Use the Evaluation Tool
Use evaluation tools to streamline the assessment process. These tools can help collect feedback, analyze data, and generate reports, making the evaluation process more efficient and insightful.

By regularly assessing and maintaining your board’s performance, you ensure it remains a powerful asset to your organization, driving success and advancing your mission.

Step 7: Board Training

A well-trained board is an effective board.

A high-functioning board doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of strategic training and continuous development. To transform your board into a powerhouse, you need to invest in robust training programs and resources. Here’s how you can ensure your board members are equipped to lead with excellence:

The State of Training in Nonprofit Boards
Many nonprofit boards are not prioritizing training, leading to gaps in knowledge and effectiveness. Often, boards lack structured programs and resources to help members understand their roles fully and perform at their best. Understanding the current state of board training helps you identify where improvements can be made.

Why Lack of Training is Detrimental
Without proper training, board members may struggle with their responsibilities, leading to poor decision-making and ineffective governance. Lack of training can result in disengagement, misalignment with the organization’s mission, and missed opportunities for growth. Investing in training is essential to avoid these pitfalls and ensure your board is functioning at its highest potential.

Where to Get Board Training
Finding the right training resources is key. Look for reputable organizations, workshops, and online courses specifically designed for nonprofit boards. These resources should offer comprehensive content on governance, strategy, and best practices tailored to your board’s needs.

Implementing a Training Program
Create a formal training program that includes orientation for new members and ongoing development for all board members. A well-structured program should cover essential governance topics, strategic planning, and any specific areas relevant to your organization. Regular training sessions help keep board members informed and engaged.

What is the Board Director Institute (BDI)?
The Board Director Institute (BDI) is a leading resource for board training, offering a range of programs and materials designed to enhance board effectiveness. BDI provides in-depth courses, practical tools, and expert guidance to help boards achieve their highest potential.

The Benefits of BDI for Your New Board
BDI’s offerings bring numerous benefits to your board, including enhanced governance skills, improved strategic planning, and stronger overall performance. By leveraging BDI’s resources, your board members will gain valuable insights and practical skills that directly contribute to your organization’s success.

Getting Started with Board Director Institute
To get started with BDI, explore their training programs and resources tailored to nonprofit boards. Sign up for relevant courses, access their materials, and integrate their training into your board’s development plan. BDI’s expertise will support your board’s journey from good to great, ensuring they are well-prepared to drive your organization’s mission forward.

Investing in board training is not just a best practice—it’s a strategic necessity. By equipping your board with the right knowledge and skills, you set the stage for more effective governance and a stronger, more successful organization.

Step 8: Board Portals

Leveraging technology can simplify board management.

When it comes to managing a high-functioning board, having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s where a board portal comes into play. Let me show you how a board portal can transform your board management and streamline your operations.

What is a Board Portal?
A board portal is a secure, centralized platform designed to simplify and enhance board management. It provides a single location where board members can access important documents, communicate effectively, and coordinate meetings. Think of it as the digital backbone of your board’s operations, streamlining everything from document sharing to meeting management.

Maximizing the Benefits of a Board Portal for Your New Board
To fully leverage the advantages of a board portal, you need to integrate it into your board’s daily operations. This means not only using it to share documents but also to foster collaboration and streamline communication. Board portals like Board Director offer features that help you manage your board with ease, including secure document storage, automated meeting scheduling, and real-time communication tools.

The Benefits of a Board Portal for Your New Board
Implementing a board portal brings a wealth of benefits to your organization. It simplifies the management of board materials, enhances communication, and ensures that all members have timely access to critical information. With Board Director’s portal, you’ll experience:

• Increased Efficiency: Automate routine tasks and reduce administrative overhead.
• Enhanced Security: Keep your documents and communications secure with advanced encryption and access controls.
• Improved Collaboration: Facilitate better communication and collaboration among board members with integrated tools and real-time updates.
• Streamlined Meetings: Manage meeting schedules, agendas, and minutes effortlessly.

Getting Started with Your Board Portal
Getting started with Board Director’s portal is simple and straightforward. Begin by setting up your account and uploading essential documents to the platform. Customize your portal to fit your board’s needs, and familiarize your members with the tools and features available. Board Director (www.BoardDirector.co) provides excellent support and resources to help you make the most of your new board portal. Schedule a Board Portal DEMO!

By adopting a board portal, you’re equipping your board with a powerful tool that enhances efficiency, communication, and security. With Board Director’s platform, you’re not just managing your board—you’re empowering it to achieve greater success. Start leveraging the full potential of a board portal today and watch your board operations transform for the better.

If you’re ready to dive deeper into all of these steps and more, you can get the full details in my book, The Ultimate Guide to Building a Dream Board. Along with the book, you’ll also receive exclusive bonuses to help you transform your board, including:

• Essential Nonprofit Governing Documents
• Beginner’s Guide to Nonprofit Boards
• Bulletproof Board Meetings
• Perfect Board Evaluations

Get everything you need to turn your dysfunctional board into the board of your dreams. You can find it here: The Ultimate Guide to Building a Dream Board.