A board member is an important role that involves acting as an individual’s fiduciary. A board’s primary roles are oversight, governance and accountability, and providing a clear direction to the organization’s strategy. Board service is also a unique chance to help an important cause within your community and can have a significant impact on the lives of people and organizations.

In a publicly held company, the board represents the owners (shareholders or stockholders) and sets policy that determines issues such as whether or not to pay dividends, the size of the dividend, stock options granted, and hiring/firing/compensation of upper management. In practice, however, it is the top management, not the board, who has the most practical power. Directors typically follow management’s recommendations and vote for them.

When choosing the members of your board, it is essential that you choose individuals who meet the required qualifications, along with the skills and experience that are required for the job. Competence is the ability to solve complicated problems and make sound decisions. Character is a reflection of your organization’s core values, and the way in which you select members that reflect those values will demonstrate the values your organization is based on.

A great source to find potential candidates is through your network. Ask a trusted person in your network or community whether they have any connections to the executive director or board. Introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in joining the board and what your track of record is in attending and being prepared for meetings.

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