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Look Who’s TalkingThe most common complaint from staff leaders is that their “board is not engaged.” Whether the comment applies to asset growth, planning or just participation at the regular board meetings, it’s the same issue.To determine the reasons for this reaction, review your recent board meetings in terms of who does all the talking. I’ll wager that it’s primarily the staff. Whether making reports of activities, reviewing committee work, or explaining some aspect of the organization’s work, the voices of the board members are essentially silent. The reason board members aren’t engaged is that they are not challenged to talk about the major issues and future of the organization. They are “reported to” or lectured at for a “training” that is presented as board development. How engaging are lectures and reports? Not very! Engagement comes from meaningful discussion about key challenges and opportunities that the organization faces. It comes from thoughtful analysis of growth, program areas of interest and opportunity, and dreams for a desired future. And it comes from board members talking among themselves. To build engagement assure that there is time for discussion at board meetings. And board members must encourage all to participate and lead the discussion. If staff is doing the talking, it won’t engage the board. |
