Nonprofit boards rely on collaboration to function effectively. They work together with other boards, committee members, and personnel from the organizational side to fulfill the mission of the organization. The dynamics of the board can foster or stifle collaboration.
A CEO of a non-profit organization told me about a board plagued by distrust and conflicting interests as well as infighting. The board’s executive director hired a consultant help get the group back on course. She asked the chair to have frank discussions with the team. The chair reluctantly agreed.
The consultant discovered that the chair had close relationships with certain members of the team, and also played favorites. She also observed the chair’s inability to communicate effectively, and her lack of understanding on how to build trust in the group.
Boards can facilitate the development of a collaborative culture by making sure that current and new board members are prepared to participate. As you welcome new members, make sure that they are ready in a team-oriented culture by introducing them to other board members and giving them the chance to work in small groups with organizational staff prior to their first meeting. This will help them get familiar with the organization, its leadership and help them build valuable connections. Provide resources that facilitate collaboration between members, for example an online portal check this for board members. This will allow board members to interact with one another in between meetings. The organization of a board retreat or other gatherings, could also foster friendship.
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