Ep. 127: Top 10 Ways to Increase Board Member Engagement

Explore the crucial topic of board governance, highlighting strategies to enhance board engagement with Jennifer Drago.

In this episode of Senior Living Visionaries, hosted by Jennifer Drago, strategy consultant and CEO of Peak to Profit, we delve into the crucial topic of board governance, focusing specifically on board engagement.

Free Resource Highlight (0:31)
The discussion begins with an introduction to a valuable free resource available on the Peak to Profit website: the Nonprofit Board Governance Self-Assessment, which helps organizations evaluate their governance processes and identify areas for improvement.

Key Practices for Board Engagement (1:22)
Jennifer outlines ten key practices for enhancing board engagement, starting with an effective board orientation. This includes providing a comprehensive overview of the organization's history, strategic plan, current financial status, and future vision. She also emphasizes the value of mentoring, where a seasoned board member supports and guides a new board member, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-informed.

Setting Expectations with Clear Roles and Responsibilities (3:01)
Clear board roles and responsibilities are essential for setting expectations. Jennifer explains that having written documents outlining participation, attendance, and preparation expectations ensures that all board members understand their duties and can contribute effectively.

Maximizing Engagement Through Effective Board Meetings (4:00)
Effective board meetings are highlighted as crucial for engagement, with timed agendas, advanced scheduling, and the provision of materials well in advance. These practices respect board members' time and enhance the quality of discussions.

Continuous Education and Industry Updates (9:10)
Ongoing education is another vital aspect of board engagement. Jennifer suggests holding educational sessions, such as lunches with guest speakers, to keep board members informed about industry trends and changes. This ensures that board members are well-equipped to make informed decisions and contribute meaningfully to the organization.

Promoting Active Participation and Role-Modeling (10:00)
Active participation is encouraged, with board members expected to role-model engagement during meetings and events. This creates an informal norm that promotes high levels of participation across the board.

Recognizing Board Members' Contributions (10:00)
Recognition and appreciation of board members' contributions are also important. Jennifer advises recognizing board members not only at the end of their terms but throughout their service. Involving them in public events and acknowledging their volunteer efforts reinforces their value to the organization.

Implementing Feedback Mechanisms (12:08)
Feedback mechanisms, including meeting effectiveness evaluations, annual board assessments, and individual board member assessments, are essential for continuous improvement. These practices help identify areas for enhancement and ensure that board members are performing effectively.

Importance of Succession Planning (14:14)
Succession planning is crucial to bring fresh perspectives to the board. Jennifer recommends having a clear plan for recruiting new board members with the desired characteristics, ensuring a steady infusion of new ideas.

Engaging Board Members Beyond Meetings (15:00)
Engaging board members in activities outside of board meetings, such as social events and volunteer activities, helps build camaraderie and strengthens their connection to the organization.

Conclusion (15:00)
Jennifer concludes by encouraging listeners to implement these ideas to strengthen their boards and enhance their competitive advantage. She invites listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn or through her website and reminds them of the free Nonprofit Governance Self-Assessment available at www.peaktoprofit.com/f/board. This assessment, which takes about 10 minutes to complete, can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your nonprofit board.

***Maximize your board's potential! Grab a copy of Nonprofit Governance Self-Assessment workbook to identify areas where your board excels and where it can improve. ➡️ www.peaktoprofit.com/f/board ***

About Our Host:

Jennifer Drago is an award-winning strategist, author, speaker and certified business coach. Through Peak to Profit consulting, she helps senior living, healthcare and nonprofit organizations get clear on their vision and strategy so they can identify -- and execute on -- opportunities for growth, revenue and operational efficiencies.

Jennifer worked as a strategy and operations executive in the healthcare and senior living industries for 30 years, facilitating strategic plans and developing new programs and service lines. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Finance, a master’s degree in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Health Services Administration from Arizona State University.

Visit www.seniorlivingvisionaries.com or our sponsor, www.peaktoprofit.com, to learn more!

You can also follow Jennifer on her LinkedIn.

About the Show:

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Categories: : Leadership, Mindset, Podcast, Strategy