11 Types of board members based on personalities and skills

As you volunteer this weekend please know that the leadership level comes with its fair share of challenges. Within the boardroom, a diverse array of personalities converges, contributing to the success of board operations. Recognizing that uniformity is not the answer, each member's unique skills and expertise become essential for collective prosperity. Personally, I identify with various types of board members in different seasons of my life.

Effectiveness in board dynamics thrives on diversity. The key is to create a balanced and complementary team where each member's strengths contribute to the overall success of the organization.

?

Here's a glimpse into the types of board members you might encounter as a volunteer or as a remunerated director;

?

1.?????? The silent member

A reserved presence that commands attention when they choose to speak. If this is your category, stay updated on industry information so that you maximize your chance and content when contributing (intermittently).

?

2.?????? The expert/the experienced director

This director has wealth of experience in one or more aspects of the company, they are technically good for the business and most of the times have researched before the meetings. Offers guidance based on past experiences and helps navigate challenges

?

3.?????? The talkative director

This one is endowed with eloquence and gifted with many words, talking is not a problem. The only catch comes when this one has not researched or read the board papers before the meeting. Preparedness is key for turning words into valuable contributions.

?

4.?????? Know-it all director

This director knows everything, every topic and subject. This one you cannot correct easily, navigating their information overload requires strategic handling to ensure accuracy.

?

5.?????? The Financial expert

This director is financially savvy, risk-aware and budget-focused. They Monitor the financial health, advises on fiscal matters and ensures financial sustainability.

?

6.?????? I –have –a –question director

This director is known for post-conclusion inquiries, always has a question just after the matter has been concluded. Always goes like this, “before we minute that resolution, I have a question…….” This director keeps discussions lively by consistently probing for deeper insights.

?

7.?????? The history-keeping director

This director meticulously keeps all records, spoken, written and unspoken, they have specific note books for each board they serve. They are thorough and do not miss any minutes, this one reads all board papers in detail. “ I refer us to the minutes of 2002 qtr 1, ?11th March………..” ?They keep referencing details to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

?

8.?????? The executor

This director keeps track of action plans and monitors progress. This director facilitates the effective implementation of decisions.

?

9.?????? The diplomat

This director makes sure there is no conflict among board members and if there is they help with the conflict management. Harmony is a priority to them.

?

10.?? The gadgets director

This director goes the board room with a minimum of three gadgets, laptop, phone and ipad/tablet. They spend more time on the gadgets than concentrating in the meeting, they do not miss calls. Most of the time they have not opened the board papers not even the agenda. I feel like they google inorder to relevantly contribute to the discussions. Despite the interruptions, their technological engagement may contribute to relevant discussions.

?

11.?? The connected director

This one has all the contacts you will ever need in the whole world. They also ensure that all the stakeholders are ethically considered in decision making.

?

It is important for you to know the kind of director you are so that you know when and how to tame yourself inorder to remain relevant in the ever evolving board room landscape.

What kind of director are you or would you like to be?

?

?#Boardofdirectors