Making board expectations explicit

Let’s continue with our consideration of good board governance. When we left off, we were discussing the first of three key board ownership questions: Do we have written policies addressing the board’s culture, conduct, and commitments?

No guessing, no dodging

A living and comprehensive board policy manual lays the groundwork in defining expectations concerning the board’s culture and appropriate categories (director, advisor, volunteer) for board member engagement. It should also delineate the specific commitments board members are being asked to make—and for which they will be held accountable as a condition for ongoing service. Once these expectations are adopted by the board and recorded in its handbook, they should form the basis of conversations with board prospects and board members eligible for reelection to subsequent terms.

— Ralph Enlow | 4thoughtleaders Blog

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