by Melissa D. Ing

Created on: February 12, 2008   Last Updated: January 28, 2012

We all depend on non-profit organizations to make a difference in both our communities and the world. Many people consider it an honor and a privilege to serve on a board, or multiple boards of several non-profit organizations. Choosing effective board members takes patience and diligence, and before choosing anyone you need to have a clear understanding of both the role of the individual and the goals of the organization.

Creating a professional application form

Applying for a position on the board of a non-profit organization is a job, and should be treated as such. Application forms should mirror those of jobs, and include such things as employment experience, education and any current or past affiliation with the non-profit company. Often, family members of paid employees are not permitted to serve on the board.

The application form should include a skills section where prospective board members can highlight their own unique capabilities, whether they are software skills, fundraising and marketing skills, or even conflict management. The board of a non-profit, like any other workplace, will undoubtedly have arguments. And it never hurts to have someone with peacemaking skills available.

Interview prospective board members

After the application process, prospective board members should be interviewed. It will be during the interview process that the non-profit organization can determine who really wants to serve, as opposed to people with their own agendas. Opening a dialogue surrounding the goals of the board and how a new member can help meet them, allows you to see how someone would perform in a professional capacity.

If there is a financial honorarium or travel allowance involved with the board position, the interview is the time to discuss it. Discuss how much time a board member is expected to spend on meetings and other activities and whether this can fit into a potential candidate's weekly schedule. It is also terribly important to perform criminal and child abuse background checks on any potential board member before hiring them, and also to check both personal and professional references.

Many non-profit boards exist only briefly to fulfil one specific, current goal of an organization, while others are general boards that meet every month to take care of ongoing fundraising issues or other matters related to the company. Depending on how long you need a board member will influence whom you hire. And if you need someone long-term it is typically best to limit it to a two- or three-year term so members don't get stale, but stay effective.

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