There are enough books and articles to fill a library on the subject of how board members can contribute to the nonprofits on whose boards they serve. But what about the other way around? What should we board members get out of board service? And as executive directors, what are the benefits we can give or offer to board members?
See it like doing three things at once: taking a seminar in wildlife conservation or drug abuse treatment, taking a leadership development course, and being a U.S. Senator.
1. Sense of being effective or having been effective
2. Learn about the field
3. Learn how to be influential in a group (where you aren't the boss)
4. Unique experiences
5. Networking
Board members: set your learning goals and tell the executive director and the board chair about them.
Executives and board chairs: ask them what they want to contribute, glad gifts. unique experiences. feeling of being an insider.
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