Effective Board Governance: 10 New Year’s Resolutions

In the spirit of the new year, here are 10 resolutions I think could apply to the boards of directors of non-profits and public agencies. Pick at least one for yourself and let’s check in 12 months from now!

1. Take some time to get to know one another. Learn about each other’s interests. Find out what people like to do in their spare time. Plan a social outing or field trip together.
2. Have at least one outreach event with a group of key stakeholders.
3. Take a fresh look at your committees. Does each have a functioning chair, a clear set of objectives, and reporting relationship to the Board?
4. Ask your chief executive what she or he needs in the way of professional development and provide it.
5. Get very clear about the long-range results you want the organization to achieve.
6. Communicate those desired results in writing to the chief executive.
7. Spend time at each meeting discussing whether those results are getting accomplished.
8. Use a data-driven approach in doing #3. If you lack the data, resolve to figure out how to get it.
9. Review your bylaws and/or governance policies and refresh them.
10. Get some training in the habits of highly effective boards!

Related Blog: The Five Habits of High-Performing Boards

Tool: Governance Framework Example

Eric Douglas

Eric Douglas is the senior partner and founder of Leading Resources Inc., a consulting firm that focuses on developing high-performing organizations. For more than 20 years, Eric has successfully helped a wide array of government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and corporations achieve breakthroughs in performance. His new book The Leadership Equation helps leaders achieve strategic clarity, manage change effectively, and build a leadership culture.