The topic: recruiting "influential" board members. Say what? Aren't all board members influential you might ask? Ah, but influential with or to whom? And here lies what I believe to be a better question although what follows is an article by Forbes that offers eight steps to recruiting their version of influential. But back to the point: influential with or to or among whom? And what precisely is the need and goal for influence? Answer these questions before following Forbes' recommendations. Also do note that the advice offered here comes from execs. I would expect that actual board members might offer some different advice.
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Trying To Land An Influential Leader As A Board Member? Follow These Eight Tips
POST WRITTEN BY
Forbes Nonprofit Council
Successful nonprofit executives from Forbes Nonprofit Council offer firsthand insights on nonprofit leadership and trends.
Nonprofit executives share their best advice on how they have acquired influential board members.PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS.
A strong board of directors is essential for any nonprofit. These individuals help shape the direction of the organization and ensure that the staff can continue carrying out the mission. That's why many nonprofits pursue influential industry players with excellent leadership track records to join their boards.
The challenge, of course, is that anyone with a significant sphere of influence is likely very busy, and can only make time for commitments that align with both their schedule and their personal interests. If you're looking to convince an influential leader to join your board of directors, follow these essential steps recommended by members of Forbes Nonprofit Council.
1. Connect Their Personal Passions To Your Organization's Mission
The purpose of life is to live a life of purpose. So, when pursuing an influential leader, be sure to find the commonality between that leader's passion or personal interests and your organization's mission. Influential leaders don't want to simply write a check. They want to make an impact. Operate from the lens that influential leaders want to make a difference. - Errika Moore, Technology Association of Georgia Education Collaborative
2. Show The Leader How Joining Benefits Them
While we clearly need the leader, what's more important is to define the purpose and benefit they would receive by joining our board. We have to make it about them. - Gloria Horsley, Open to Hope
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3. Bring Your 'A' Team
An influential leader is also a busy person. They most likely didn't gain their influence by sitting around all day. That being said, when meeting with an influential leader to join your board, bring one or two board members and your executive director to the meeting. This will limit the number of meetings and shows the candidate you value their time. - Tom Van Winkle, Hinsdale Humane Society
4. Set And Manage Expectations Up Front
Once you have a leader's ear, be respectful of their time. Get to the point. What do you need them to do? Spell it out and make sure they understand the fiduciary responsibility and obligations. Help them know we will move as fast as we can, but sometimes nonprofits have parameters, measures and outcomes which may take a little extra time. Help them manage expectations. - Aaron Alejandro, Texas FFA Foundation
5. Be Prepared, Punctual And Focused
The most precious thing they have is their very limited time. If your mission didn't resonate with them, they wouldn't continue the conversation. You had better show them you are prepared, punctual and focused. When they ask about board obligations, be concise and factor in their time, e.g., ask them to make introductions rather than to build partnerships. Make it easy for them to say 'yes.' - George Tsiatis, The Resolution Project
6. Do Your Research And Connect At An Emotional Level
One has to really do some research about the person you want to approach. Your mission has to resonate with them, otherwise you are wasting your and their time. Reach to the heart of why they want to be associated with your cause and why it serves them to be an influencer and a direction-setter for your organization or field. Be respectful and make sure there is a real match. - Magdalena Mook, ICF (International Coach Federation)
7. Leverage Existing Relationships
If you don't already have an established relationship, use the ones you have to learn about the person and to get you in the door. Warming up a cold call is always great. Most times, you will get a 'yes' when someone they know is acting as the intermediary. - Blake Pang, United Ways Serving Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties
8. Make Sure They Understand And Are Committed To Your Mission
An influential board member and leader must fully understand, believe in and be committed to being part of the fulfillment of the mission of the organization. They must feel personally drawn to the work of the organization and agree to participate fully in the oversight and governance of the organization. Our boards represent the integrity, passion, commitment and work of our organizations. - Rachel Zelon, Hunger Relief International