5 Worthy Board Resolutions for 2021

Like everyone else on the planet, your 2020 New Year’s resolutions flew out of the window last March, right?

This is the time of year when lists are made and people stop, start or change doing things in 2021. It would be nice for non-profit boards to adopt this practice as part of their planning as there is always room for improvement!

Here are 5 worthy 2021 New Year’s resolutions for non-profit boards:

1. Put more focus on board diversity

Boards that wish to maximize their effectiveness should strive to ensure that diverse perspectives are constantly encouraged and incorporated into the work of the board. While there has been progress and more conversation in this area, there is still a long way to go. And focusing on one form of diversity is not enough.  

2. Align your by-laws and board policies with your actual processes

If 2020 has not forced your board to look at your non-profit’s policies and processes, this is a timely moment to do so. Particularly if your 2020 pivots resulted in being offside with governance rules and processes. 

3. Plan for future board succession

Most non-profits still don’t have a written board succession plan in place, even after the year we just had and the transition challenges that many boards faced. Succession planning enables organizations to freshen and transition leadership smoothly which will enable boards to meet the challenges of a constantly changing environment. 

4. Stay in your board member lane

There is a governance expression that it’s ok for board members to put their noses in, but to keep their fingers out. Respect the boundaries that are set out in your policies regarding the responsibilities of the board versus those of staff. 

5. Hold yourself and board members accountable

Some board members have risen to the highly unexpected challenges this year and some have checked out due to having to focus on their own pandemic survival and overwhelming workloads. Don’t be afraid to have tough conversations if some board members need to be held accountable for not carrying their weight. Just make sure discussions are respectful and professional. 

There is still time for your board to work on 2021 resolutions and remember that …

“It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” - George Eliot

If you need any more resolution ideas or suggestions for areas of improvement for your board or organization, don't hesitate to reach out.

Happy New Year!
 

Yours in Good Governance,
Heather Terrence, CAE
Pinpoint Governance Group
647.984.9857
info@pinpointgg.ca