10 Emotionally Intelligent Tips to Be a Better Board Member and President

In the private club industry, where member experience is paramount, emotionally intelligent and mindful leadership can significantly impact staff morale and service quality. Here are 10 tips for volunteer board members, committee members, and board presidents to elevate their leadership and govern collaboratively with paid management.

1. Lead with Action

Example: A board president who actively participates in club events sets a strong example for other board members.

Actionable Tip: Show your commitment by attending and engaging in club activities. Your presence and participation will demonstrate the behavior you expect from other volunteers and staff.

2. Don’t Micromanage

Example: A board member trusting the club manager to implement board-approved initiatives without constant oversight.

Actionable Tip: Hire competent professionals and trust them to perform their roles. Provide strategic direction and oversight, but allow the management team the autonomy to execute plans and make decisions.

3. Invest in the Team

Example: A committee member advocating for professional development opportunities for the club staff.

Actionable Tip: Support initiatives that help staff grow professionally. This could include funding for training programs, workshops, or industry conference attendance.

4. Focus on High-Impact Work

Example: A board president prioritizing strategic planning over routine administrative tasks during meetings.

Actionable Tip: Concentrate on tasks that have the most significant impact on the club’s success. Encourage fellow board members to focus their efforts on strategic planning and governance rather than day-to-day operations.

5. Set Priorities for Deep Work

Example: A board member dedicating time to thoroughly review and understand financial reports before meetings.

Actionable Tip: Limit the number of shallow discussions during meetings and allocate time for in-depth analysis and strategic planning. Ensure that board members have the time and resources needed to engage in deep, focused work.

6. Jump In

Example: A committee member stepping in to help during a major club event.

Actionable Tip: Be ready to assist when the club needs extra hands. Whether it’s during a significant event or a critical project, your willingness to help will inspire others and strengthen the team.

7. Communicate Clearly, Concisely and Often

Example: A board president regularly updating the board and management on strategic goals and progress.

Actionable Tip: Maintain open and frequent communication with both the board and management team. Provide clear and concise updates, and encourage open dialogue to ensure alignment and transparency.

8. Listen

Example: A committee member actively seeking input from club members and staff before making decisions.

Actionable Tip: Make a habit of listening to the concerns and suggestions of club members and staff. Regularly solicit feedback and take it into consideration when making decisions, fostering a more inclusive and responsive governance.

9. Zero Tolerance for Toxicity

Example: A board president addressing conflicts and negative behavior among board members immediately and fairly.

Actionable Tip: Establish and enforce a zero-tolerance policy for toxic behavior. Address issues swiftly and impartially to maintain a positive and productive environment for both the board and staff.

10. Take Time Off

Example: A board member taking a break to recharge and encouraging others to do the same.

Actionable Tip: Promote a healthy work-life balance by taking regular breaks and encouraging fellow board members and staff to do the same. This helps prevent burnout and ensures sustained productivity and morale.

By incorporating these emotionally intelligent practices, volunteer board members, committee members, and board presidents can create a positive, productive environment that enhances the member experience and fosters effective collaboration with the club’s paid management.

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