managing a nonprofit is usually a volunteer job for those who have a deep passion for the cause. While the work can be rewarding however, it’s not always simple. One of the most difficult aspects of the job is management of boards. Board members are often distracted by the bigger scope of their tasks and neglect the small-scale details that are necessary to keep the nonprofit running smoothly. This can manifest itself in a number of ways, including hiring an executive director, or smaller ones, such as taking a look at pricing for features services.
There are a myriad of resources that can help board members effectively manage their responsibilities. According to the 2015 guide Leading with Intent, some of the most frequently-asked board responsibility areas include fundraising, financial oversight as well as community-building and advocacy. It is crucial that every member of the board has the ability to effectively fulfill these duties.
Boards can be organized into different committees in order to streamline their work and enhance overall performance. A committee for fundraising events, for instance might be tasked with organizing events and managing the donor database. Another committee could be charged with recruiting new members and orienting them and also conducting performance evaluations for the board. A third committee might focus on the internal processes and procedures of the board, such as the development of policies. A fourth committee could concentrate on governance.
No matter the board’s structure, they should be properly staffed and equipped with tools to simplify board responsibilities, and allow for open communication and transparency. For instance, software for boards can streamline meeting management and make it easier for members to stay on top of their responsibilities by allowing them to cut down on time during board meetings, with central agendas, email notification and much more.
boardroomusa.org/what-information-do-board-secretaries-need-to-record/