Nonprofit boards rely on collaboration to function effectively. They collaborate with staff and committee members to help the nonprofit’s mission. However, often the board’s own ethos can either foster or hinder their potential for collaboration.
A nonprofit CEO shared with me about a board team which was plagued by infighting, conflicting interests, and mistrust. The executive director of the board hired a consultant to assist in getting the group back on course. She asked the chairperson of the board to have open discussions with the board. The chair reluctantly agreed.
The consultant observed that the chair had close relationships with certain members of the team, and also played favorites. She also noticed the chair’s inability to communicate effectively and her lack of understanding of how to build trust within the group.
Boards can encourage a strong collaborative culture by ensuring that both current and new members are prepared for it. When introducing new members to the board, make sure that they are ready to be part of a team environment by introducing them to other board members and allow them to work with the organizational staff in small groups before the first board meeting. This will help them get familiar with the organization and its leadership, and develop important connections. Create resources that encourage collaboration among members, such an online board portal. This allows board members to interact with each other between meetings. Organising a retreat for the board, or other gatherings, can be a great way to build friendship.
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