What Do You Need to Know?

Before you commit to a board of directors, be sure you have all the facts.  Know what you are walking into.  Know what is expected of you.  Be certain this commitment fits with your goals and your assets. 

Many boards provide their members with board manuals or orientation and training sessions.  If these resources are available to you, take advantage of them.  If you do not have access to these tools, seek out the information you require.  It is particularly important to do so before you sign on with the board.  However, even veteran board members may have information gaps, or may benefit from refreshing and updating their knowledge.

What do you need to know in order to ensure this is the right commitment for you?  You should seek out information in the following areas:

• Requirements of you as a board member
• History of the organization
• Mission and values
• Programs and services
• Board structure and governance
• Finances and fundraising
• Planning
• Policy development
• Human resources
• Public relations
• Legal issues

For specific information you need in each of these areas, refer to the Know Your Organization exercise.

How do you access this information?  You could:

• Interview the Nominating Committee, President or Executive Director
• Attend a board meeting
• Request such documents as:
  • Brochures
  • Newsletters
  • Annual report and audited financial statements
  • Program or service summaries
  • Organizational chart
  • By-laws
  • Board and committee job descriptions
  • Board roster
  • Budget
  • Strategic plan.

For specific information, go to Get to know your organization.

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