103: Buddy Systems & Sitcom Jingles

Today, we’re diving headfirst into the exciting world of nonprofit boards of directors – and specifically, how to bring in new board members! We know – it sounds like something only a paperwork-loving lawyer could adore, but stick with us. It’s going to be fun!

On this episode of Charity Therapy, we’re peeling back the curtain to reveal how to get those new board members feeling like part of the family in no time. Trust us, it’s a game-changer for your nonprofit’s success!

We’ve all seen it – that fresh-faced board member shows up eager to help, only to be left bewildered by acronyms and inside jokes from meetings long past. Not on our watch! We’re sharing tips on how to avoid those “deer in the headlights” moments with a warm welcome and some super practical steps. Think of it as setting up a board member playdate where everyone ends up besties, complete with secret handshakes (okay, maybe not that far). But seriously, we’re making sure you have the know-how to guide those newbies from clueless to clued-in, ensuring they’re ready to make those big, important decisions confidently.

We’re not just chatting about the best practices; we’re serving up real-life “I can actually use this” advice. From crafting a welcoming packet that doesn’t bore people to tears to pairing up your new board member with a seasoned pro who can show them the ropes – we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’re tackling how to mix in a little bit of that special sauce – your organization’s culture – so that everyone’s singing from the same song sheet.

So, grab your headphones and a comfy chair, and let’s turn the sometimes bumpy road of board onboarding into a smooth ride to success!

In this episode, you will hear:

• The overlooked part of nonprofit life: onboarding new board members
• Why onboarding board members is just as important as hiring new employees
• How to make new board members feel ready to tackle their roles
• What is a “board buddy” and why you should use them
• How the nonprofit’s core values will help you identify and integrate new members 
• What processes for recruitment and onboarding you need 
• How to get new board members up to speed so they can make informed decisions right from the start

Resources from this Episode

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