Written by Bob Harris, CAE Most Common Board Questions The three most common questions about boards of directors. Often they are asked by executive directors who want their boards to perform at a higher level with improved outcomes. • What size should the board be? •How often should the board meet? • What about ex-officio…
Read MoreAt least 80% of nonprofits in America rely on volunteers for their work force. In fact, most nonprofits would not exist if not for the volunteers that serve them.
Read MoreThe nonprofit world is seeing a downturn in volunteerism, a squeeze on its revenue streams and rising competition. How can you be the “up periscope” for your organization to see what is ahead and to make important course changes to maintain your organization’s relevance?
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE BOLD is a word frequently used in news headlines. “We need a bold plan to address guns in schools,” and, “Candidate unveils bold initiatives to curb violence.” Bold can be described as an action or decision that demonstrates an ability to take risks with confidence and courage. Seldom does…
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE There is no single authority for how associations operate. Every nonprofit and its board are unique. They are influenced by culture, resources, scope and member expectations, for example. While rigid guidelines don’t exist, some processes are better than others. Here are examples of MISGUIDED PRACTICES regarding minutes, board meetings and…
Read MoreYou might have heard this one at the board table, “we cannot make a profit.” Or, the always popular, “anybody can do the ED’s job.” These are the myths that are promulgating boards across the country.
Read MoreThe problem with a board myth is that the director making the statement sounds believable. Without facts, the rest of the board accepts the statement.
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE I spend a lot of time on airplanes traveling to association and chamber meetings. Soon after takeoff the captain announces, “We have reached 32,000 feet, the ride should be smooth up here.” At a high altitude there is less drag. The plane is more efficient requiring less fuel. There is…
Read MoreWritten by Bob Harris, CAE Within minutes of adjourning the planning retreat the directors scattered, returning to work after volunteering a day or weekend to create the multi-year strategic plan. Back at the association office staff were playing catch up. There was temptation to put the new document in a file with other older strategic…
Read MoreAssessing not only once but many times in different forms helps to move us from a static annual process to one that is more of a progress check in, which allows for continuous improvement and in “doing what is necessary” for your organization’s constituents.
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