Page 62 - C&A's Nonprofit Board Guide

WHAT THE NEW BOARD LOOKS LIKE WHAT THE NEW BOARD LOOKS LIKE

11. EQUANIMITY 17. UNDERSTANDING AND REFLECTING THE COMMUNITY SERVED

Remaining calm and composed, especially during stressful situations, is crucial for Board members should have a deep understanding of the community they serve. In many
effective governance. cases, this means being a part of that community. This connection ensures that the board’s
decisions are relevant and impactful, directly addressing the community’s needs and
12. BEING OPEN-MINDED perspectives.
Embracing diverse perspectives and being willing to adapt your views strengthens board 18. KNOWLEDGE ISN’T EVERYTHING
dynamics and decision-making.
A common misconception is that vast knowledge about the mission, law, finances, or
13. MINDFULNESS OF IMPACT fundraising alone makes for a strong board member. While these skills are valuable, they
must be complemented by the right mindset.
Board decisions have far-reaching consequences. Considering both micro and macro
effects is vital for responsible governance. 19. PASSION FOR THE MISSION

14. BRAVERY Passion drives action. Board members with a deep connection to the cause often outperform
those with mere technical expertise.
Effective board members are not afraid to ask tough questions and challenge assumptions,
driving the organization towards better outcomes. 20. THE POWER OF MINDSET

15. DISPASSIONATE PASSION A positive, proactive attitude can surpass extensive knowledge. Board members with a
“can-do” spirit and strong work ethic often contribute more effectively to the organization’s
Balancing passion with logic ensures that emotions do not cloud judgment, leading to success.
sound decisions.
THE NEW BOARD LOOKS BEYOND FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTIONS, SEEKING MEMBERS WHO
16. SAYING NO TO GOOD IDEAS BRING PASSION, COMMITMENT, AND A DEEP UNDERSTANDING OF THE COMMUNITY
THEY SERVE. BY EMBODYING THESE ATTRIBUTES, BOARD MEMBERS CAN DRIVE THEIR
Prioritizing the best ideas over merely good ones ensures focused and effective use of ORGANIZATIONS TOWARDS GREATER IMPACT AND SUCCESS. REFLECT ON THESE
QUALITIES AS YOU SEEK TO STRENGTHEN YOUR BOARD OR CONSIDER YOUR OWN ROLE
resources. WITHIN IT. TOGETHER, LET’S BUILD BOARDS THAT ARE NOT ONLY KNOWLEDGEABLE BUT
ALSO TRULY DEDICATED TO THEIR MISSION AND COMMUNITY.

61 62