Leadership is the art of balancing reason and intuition. This applies not only to leading an organization but also to managing a board team. You inspire, formulate a vision, set strategic goals, and motivate the team to achieve those goals. In addition, you must also be able to build a bridge between the board team and other stakeholders, such as employees, customers, or partners. But how do you put together such a board team? How do you go about it? I have 11 tips for you on how to do this properly.
- What Skills Are Needed
First, determine the most ideal composition for your team. Look at sector experience, functional expertise, diversity, and independence. Identify the specific skills and experiences needed and ensure a good balance between the different areas of expertise and perspectives.
- Attract Varied and Qualified Candidates
Next, start with a structured hiring process and attract varied and qualified candidates. Use external search agencies and networking channels to find a range of potential candidates. Remember: diversity in both thinking and background should be your priority. It promotes innovative and well-informed decision-making.
- Provide Comprehensive Onboarding
Once you’ve assembled your “dream team,” offer them a thorough onboarding program that familiarizes them with the organization’s mission, values, governance structure, and strategic priorities. Introduce them to key stakeholders and relevant documents, and give them access to training and mentorship opportunities.
- Foster Open Communication and Collaboration
Create a culture of open communication, mutual trust, and active collaboration within the board team. Encourage open dialogues, respectful discussions, constructive feedback, and active participation. This promotes transparency and informed decision-making.
- Define Roles and Responsibilities
Clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of board members, board committees, and leadership positions. Ensure that the scope of authority and supervision is clear, so there is no confusion and accountability can be enforced. This increases the efficiency and effectiveness of the board.
- Strategic Thinking and Alignment
Actively involve board members in strategic discussions and decision-making processes. This fosters support and understanding regarding the vision, mission, and long-term goals. Encourage forward-thinking and drive innovation so that the board can respond effectively to new trends and challenges in the sector.
- Embrace Diversity of Thought
Avoid groupthink. Instead, promote a broader, deeper approach to complex issues. Strive for diverse insights by valuing different backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. Encourage dissenting viewpoints and constructive debates to strengthen decision-making.
- Education and Development
Offer board members training and development opportunities to continuously improve their management skills. This is the best way to keep up with the latest trends, best practices, and changing regulations. Facilitate access to conferences, seminars, and training courses relevant to both the industry and the personal role of each board member.
- Evaluate Regularly
Regularly review the performance and effectiveness of the board to identify strengths, areas for improvement, and development opportunities. Use feedback from evaluations to adjust governance practices and improve overall effectiveness. This process should also examine the dynamics of governance and cooperation between members.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Make diversity, equity, and inclusion an integral part of governance by actively seeking diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Ensure that the recruitment, selection, and advancement process is fair and inclusive. This not only contributes to a wider range of ideas but also creates a governance climate in which all members feel heard and valued.
- Lead by Example
Leadership must demonstrate ethical conduct, professional integrity, and a strong commitment to the organization’s mission and values. Leadership sets the tone for the culture within the board and acts as an example for other members.
Want to Know More?
By following the steps above, you can develop a board team in your organization that is not only effective and strategic but also contributes to the long-term sustainable success of your organization. Would you like to know more, discuss this topic, or ask another relevant question? Contact me!
Wilko Grievink
M: (+31) 6 553 622 53
E: wilko.grievink@hightouchglobal.com
