BETTER PRACTICES
Prospective Board
Members Who Are Not Ready!
What do you do when members express an interest in serving on the Board, but it is clear they are not good candidates -- because they may be too inexperienced, may be motivated by the wrong reasons, may have the wrong attitude, or may not have the right skills?
Too often, associations handle these situations badly. In a misguided view of what is democratic, some associations will take the individual on the Board. Other associations will recognize the mis-match but handle the situation inappropriately, and have an upset member as a result.
The key is to find out about the member's interests, experience, motivations, etc. While they may not be a good match for the Board, they could be a good candidate for another role in the organization.
Dissuade their involvement on the Board at this time, but provide the member with a good alternative opportunity where they can participate in a meaningful way.
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