To my nonprofit peeps: “How do we get the “right” candidate on the “right” board?” is a question I struggled with as an Exective Director of a nonprofit, a federal program officer and now as a consultant. So I thought it might be a good time to discuss. Let’s start with this—everyone is looking for the “right board candidate” it is not exclusive to your board. Every organization wants the top folks on their boards.
What’s interesting is that in the pursuit of the “right” candidate, we think about everything we can tell or show them about our organization. We think of ways they fit into our board, the work they can do and the assets they bring to the table. And we love selling our “mission.”
And while that is great, candidates have a perspective as well when they examine potential boards. Candidates often assess possible boards in the same way they look at prospective employers. Candidates may like your organizations values—but are more interested in the company’s success, the people they attract, and ultimately where they will be working and who they will be working with on projects.
So, the TRUTH: the “right” board candidate may or may not love your mission. All is not lost. What the “right” candidate cares about is the people you have successfully attracted to your current board. While, I am not dismissing the value of the mission—my research shows that the high-value board candidates are most interested in the names and backgrounds of the current board. You biggest advertisement: are the board names on your letterhead or website.
Quid Pro Quo: Board Members will serve your cause if you serve theirs.
The Truth, the “right” candidate for your board, wants ACCESS. Access to a new network of people, potential business opportunities, and key relationships. What your board will get—is ACCESS to everyone that the “right” candidate you are pursuing knows, in addition to financial support and strong support for the mission.
Truth: The “right people” don’t always care about your mission per se.
Breathe… The “right people” want to be engaged with like-minded people to help you drive your mission.