What are the challenges and opportunities of engaging young and emerging leaders in board service?

1 Challenge: Board culture and expectations

One of the main challenges for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board culture and expectations. Many boards have a traditional and hierarchical structure, with long-term members who have established norms and routines. This can make it difficult for new and younger board members to feel welcome, respected, and valued. Additionally, some boards may have high expectations for board members in terms of time commitment, financial contribution, or professional expertise, which can be daunting or unrealistic for young and emerging leaders who may have competing priorities, limited resources, or different perspectives.

2 Opportunity: Board diversity and innovation

One of the main opportunities for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board diversity and innovation. Young and emerging leaders can bring fresh ideas, diverse perspectives, and relevant skills to the board, which can enhance the board's decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic planning. They can also help the board connect with new audiences, partners, and donors, especially from younger generations who may have different preferences, values, and motivations. By involving young and emerging leaders in board service, the board can foster a culture of inclusion, learning, and adaptation, which can improve the board's performance and impact.

3 Challenge: Board recruitment and retention

Another challenge for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board recruitment and retention. Many boards lack a clear and intentional strategy for identifying, attracting, and selecting young and emerging leaders who are aligned with the organization's mission, vision, and values. They may also rely on traditional methods of outreach, such as word-of-mouth, referrals, or advertisements, which may not reach or appeal to this group. Furthermore, many boards do not provide adequate orientation, training, mentoring, or feedback for new and younger board members, which can affect their engagement, satisfaction, and retention.

4 Opportunity: Board development and succession

Another opportunity for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board development and succession. Young and emerging leaders can benefit from the board service as a learning and growth opportunity, where they can acquire new knowledge, skills, and experiences that can advance their personal and professional goals. They can also benefit from the board network, where they can build relationships with other board members, staff, stakeholders, and mentors who can support their development and career. By providing young and emerging leaders with meaningful and rewarding board service, the board can cultivate a pipeline of future board leaders who can sustain the organization's governance and mission.

5 Challenge: Board impact and accountability

A final challenge for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board impact and accountability. Many boards struggle to measure and communicate their impact and value to the organization and the community, which can affect their credibility, legitimacy, and relevance. They may also face external pressures and expectations from funders, regulators, or beneficiaries, who may demand more transparency, accountability, and responsiveness from the board. These challenges can pose risks and opportunities for young and emerging leaders who may have different standards, aspirations, or questions about the board's role and responsibilities.

6 Opportunity: Board advocacy and influence

A final opportunity for engaging young and emerging leaders in board service is the board advocacy and influence. Young and emerging leaders can leverage their board service as a platform to advocate for the organization's cause, vision, and values, and to influence positive change in their fields, sectors, or communities. They can also use their board service as a way to amplify their voice, vision, and values, and to inspire others to join or support the organization's work. By engaging young and emerging leaders in board service, the board can enhance its reputation, reach, and impact.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?