Evaluating Boards - Who Stays and Who Goes?

Getting the maximum performance out of Not for Profit board members can often be difficult, especially if you have more than a dozen members to evaluate, according to a US philanthropy publication.

According to the NonProfit Times, a leading business publication for Nonprofit Management, having policies and procedures in place to help weed out those not performing and rejuvenating those who need a kick in the pants is key to developing a top-notch board.

Here are a few tips from the NonProfit Times in dealing with underachieving board members:

– Use the regular nominating process to ask all board members whether they want to remain on the board. Don’t assume that you have to wait until a board member’s term is up to ask if that person wants to continue.

– Take advantage of opportunities for board renewal. Consider the possibility that poor group dynamics, lagging energy or burnout experienced by the board as a group contributes to the inactivity and lethargy of some members. A board self-assessment or planning retreat can provide an opportunity to re-connect with mission and strengthen relationships within the group.

– Don’t assume that the performance of individual board members can’t change — or that it won’t change over time. A new project or a new committee assignment may energise a slacking board member.