All,
What sorts of suggestions does the Manager Tools community have for a new member of a nonprofit board directed with increasing general board leadership?
I was recently offered a position on the board for a local nonprofit organization that makes home repairs and modifications for the elderly and disabled. I am passionate and excited about the cause.
Over the weekend, I was doing some forward thinking on how to be most effective in this type of position. In talking to the founder of the organization, it is his intention to have me concentrate specifically on increasing general board leadership. I have a few ideas on how to do this from an organizational standpoint, but find myself mentally struggling with this situation due to the equality in role power.
My initial interpretation of the situation was that I think the controlling subject matter here will be the podcasts surrounding peer to peer situations. The only real source of "power" between members of the board has to be relational, and that means growing relationships has to be the gateway. This is as far as I get.
How can I encourage my peers to be effective board leaders, as a mere board member myself?
Thank you in advance.
-F
Communication --> Trust --> Relationship
-F
Start by defining what's meant by "general leadership." Define it in actionable terms. It could be something as simple as, initiate a new fund-raising activity.
While you're working on that, build relationships with your fellow board members. Communicate frequently, build their trust. Find out what motivated them to join the board. Find out what they see as challenges in their lives.
Tie the action from the first paragraph into a solution for the challenges identified in the second paragraph. Inspire them to see how initiating a new fund-raising activity can solve their problem with a troubled teenager, or whatever issue they're dealing with. Remember, when influencing another, speak of their interests, not of the features or facts.
Good luck!
--Michael
General Leadership
Two suggestions: First, clarify exactly what is meant by "general leadership." Make sure you're on the same page as those who recruited you.
Second, model the behavior.