During the same conversation referred to in the previous blog, my colleague and I were also discussing the roles and common behaviours of people who serve on non-profit, community and charitable boards.
We often find that people sign up to be on the boards but don't really do much of anything.
So, we started discussing the difference between "showing up" and "serving" on a board.
Certainly in my opinion, I think many people who sign up for serving on a board don't fully realise the expectation there is to work, and sometimes, work hard. That said, sometimes the recruitment and induction process as well as the ongoing leadership of boards, doesn't promote and develop board members and the expected behaviours.
What are your thoughts?
Coaching Exercises
1. In your opinion, what does it mean to serve on a board?
2. Have you ever served on a board? What personal gains did you achieve as a result of the experience? What professional gains did you receive? What was the impact of your involvement? How would you evaluate the quantity and quality of your contribution? How did others evaluate it?
3. If you haven't served on a board, what would you like to personally gain from the experience if you did join one? What about professionally? What type of contribution would you like to make? What type of contribution would others expect of you? What behaviours would you need to consistently perform at a high standard to match the role?
4. As a result of these questions and your considered responses to them, what are you committing to?
As always, if you need any further personal support in response to any of these coaching exercises, please consider using the askacoach.com service.
All the best,
Noel
Noel Posus - Master Coach
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