For 25 years I have been involved with non-profit volunteer boards, which function in a similar way to a business board. The challenge for many boards is that the members often only spend two or three years before jumping into executive committee positions. The majority have limited high level leadership experience and as a result can get a power rush with the title... This is when the challenges for their organization begin.
Leadership within a volunteer board is a gift that has been given by the membership. Those same members entrust the financial and community spirit of their organization to the hands of the board members, which is the gift.
I have witnessed great leaders grow groups and build membership only to have that same group desolve within only a couple of years due to the "bad" leadership of executive committee members that followed. So often it is the result of the executive wanting to have the power and wanted their way or no way, without consultation with members or fellow board members. It is a form of bullying...
I recommend to any volunteer board that they hold a focused board development retreat at least every three years. Everyone is required to devote a day to understanding the real culture of the organization, the gift that is given in the seat on the board and listen to the guidance of an expert mentor that understands what works and what will distroy their community. The big rule is put laptop, phones and egos are not allowed in the room and members focus on the day...
I have carried this type of program out for many dyverse groups and see wonderful results as I share the leadership skills need for success. Board members learn humility, the gift of power and that communication is imperative... They will be successful if they listen and learn. No one is too big or too smart to learn... If you have experienced these challenges let me know and I can guide you back on track without ruffeling feathers... Best of luck.
