How can you choose the best nonprofit board to serve on?

1 Assess your motivation

Before you start looking for a board position, you need to ask yourself why you want to serve on a nonprofit board. What are you hoping to gain from the experience? What are you willing to give in return? How does serving on a board align with your personal and professional mission? Your motivation will help you narrow down your search and identify the type of board that suits you best. For example, if you want to learn new skills, you might look for a board that offers training and mentoring opportunities. If you want to make a difference in your community, you might look for a board that works on a local issue you care about.

2 Research potential boards

Once you have a clear idea of your motivation, you can start researching potential boards that match your criteria. You can use online platforms, such as BoardSource, Idealist, or VolunteerMatch, to find board openings in your area or field of interest. You can also tap into your existing network and ask for referrals or recommendations from your colleagues, friends, or mentors. When researching potential boards, pay attention to their mission, vision, values, goals, programs, finances, governance, and culture. You want to find a board that resonates with your passion, aligns with your values, and has a clear and realistic strategy.

4 Consider the board's composition

Another important factor to consider when choosing a board is its composition. You want to find a board that has a diverse and balanced mix of people, perspectives, and expertise. You also want to find a board that has a positive and collaborative culture, where board members respect, support, and challenge each other. You can assess the board's composition by looking at their board roster, bios, and profiles, and by observing their interactions during board meetings or events. You want to find a board that welcomes your input, values your contribution, and offers you opportunities to grow and learn.

5 Prepare for the application process

Once you have decided on the board you want to serve on, you need to prepare for the application process. You need to update your resume, write a cover letter, and gather any relevant documents or references that showcase your qualifications and interest. You also need to prepare for the interview, where you will have a chance to ask and answer questions, and demonstrate your fit and enthusiasm for the board. You want to present yourself as a professional, passionate, and proactive candidate, who can add value to the board and the organization.

6 Follow up and make a decision

After you have applied and interviewed for the board position, you need to follow up and make a decision. You need to send a thank-you note to the board members who interviewed you, and express your continued interest and availability. You also need to wait for their response, and be ready to accept or decline their offer. If you receive more than one offer, you need to weigh the pros and cons of each board, and choose the one that best meets your criteria and expectations. You want to make a confident and informed decision, and commit to serving on the board with integrity and dedication.

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?