If you're looking to have a meaningful impact on the success of an organization, joining its board of directors can be a rewarding opportunity. Before taking this important step however, there are five crucial questions that need answering for it to make sense for both you and the non-profit alike!

1.  Commitment Level

When considering a board of director role, one must be prepared to dedicate and devote an adequate level of time & energy. Meetings will need to be attended, reports read through, decisions made - not only that but budgets requiring thorough review too. It is crucial you get an understanding as early on as possible what kind demands come with the responsibility, so you are equipped for success in this pivotal leadership position.

2.  Know and Understand the Organization’s Foundation

If you’re being asked to join a board of directors, it's important that you have full information and understanding about the organization. A great place to start is with its foundational documents like bylaws or incorporation papers. You should also become familiar with any arrangements they may have in place; from contracts made between governments and funders, lease agreements through to their strategic direction and priorities - know what makes it tick!

3.  Expectations

Before saying yes to a board membership, it's important to know the expectations of you. Do they want someone who can provide strategic guidance? Or need assistance with fundraising and business growth? Making sure that your specific skills are in line with an organization's needs is essential for maximizing success during your time on their board!

4.  Responsibilities & Liabilities

Board membership can be an incredibly rewarding job but it's important to understand the responsibilities and liabilities that come with it. As a prospective board member, you need to keep in mind your duty of care when making decisions - acting responsibly according to applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards. It is also essential for you to familiarize yourself with any potential collective and personal risks associated with this role early so that you are aware of what lies ahead before embarking on this leadership journey.

5.  The Organization's Bottom Line

At the most basic level, for-profits are judged mainly on their financial success and growth of the bottom line. It's a numbers game in many ways. Non-profits, however, are judged largely on how well they achieve the goals and objectives of their mission statement. Those goals may include providing services to disadvantaged people or regions, making positive change in key areas like healthcare or education, or doing environmental work. While both types of organization still need to generate revenue, non-profits focus more firmly on how that revenue is used towards fulfilling the overall mission.

Leaders, if you're thinking about joining a non-profit board of directors, it's important to look beyond the basics - like how many services were provided or programs delivered. Instead focus on what kind of impact those activities had for its beneficiaries. Take in account whether their mission was met and how far they've progressed towards achieving it!

Conclusion

Serving on a non-profit organization's board of directors can be both rewarding and challenging depending on how prepared you are when taking on this responsibility.

By considering each of these five elements before saying yes, non-profit leaders can make an informed decision about whether taking on this role is right for them at this moment in time—and help ensure they get off on the right foot if they decide it is indeed!

Your Friend,
Jon Close