From Board Expectations to Board Reality

Tell them what to do. And then tell them again.

 Do you need a supportive, accountable board? Of course you do, and explicit expectations are a step in getting what you need. 

But since reading something once doesn't translate into retention, those explicit requirements should not be one and done, but something that board members engage with at different points throughout board service.

When to use explicit board member expectations:

·        When meeting with prospective board members so they know what they would be getting into

·        During new member orientation, converted into a formal agreement that board members sign

·        Annually. During a board meeting or retreat, ask (or have your chair or Nominating Committee Chair ask) board members to reflect on how well they met the expectations.

·        During Nominating Committee deliberations on reelection of board members. Adherence to expectations should be a condition for reelection to the board.

Promises are nice. Reminders are helpful. Enforcement matters.