Why Doesn't the Board (complete the sentence)?

I was asked last week during a webinar about board and staff roles, for tips on how to make the board more engaged at board meetings. The question came from an executive director who said her board is passive and just lets her do all the talking.

My immediate answer was "Stop talking." 

I think it might be just that simple. Far too often chief executives in nonprofits are their own worst enemies. They fall into the trap of thinking that they must constantly prove their worth to the board of directors by taking the lead at board meetings, monopolizing the conversations.

I think what this leads to very often is a shift from the board's initiative to the staff's initiative. And the result can be a passive board that doesn't have to think for itself or take its governance responsibilities seriously.

So, stop talking.

Allow the board leader to lead the board. Even if this technique results in some uncomfortable moments of silence, let it happen. To get the conversation started, ask the board members what they think and then wait for them to answer.

Would this work for your board?

Share the most pressing needs for your board's enhanced performance.

This discussion and more great tips for board/staff relations: "The Invisible Yellow Line: Clarifying Board and Staff Roles. www.charitychannel.com/bookstore/productid/158/catreferrer/2236

Jean Block
www.jblockinc.com
jean@jblockinc.com