They are volunteers, too!
Look here for information and the latest techniques to develop your board or committee. The purpose is to help those who work or serve on nonprofit boards of directors or committees.

~October 2009~

BOARD EXPECTATIONS OF STAFF

People serving on a board assume that the person serving in a paid staff position knows what is expected of them in their mutual relationship.  It is only in recent years that colleges and universities have developed programs to train people in managing a nonprofit.  Often those programs are lacking in classes on the management of volunteers.  Also, many people who work in nonprofits in a leadership capacity did not set out to have that as a career.  So, sometimes a bit of tutoring is needed on what a board might expect from staff members, not matter their level in the organization.

This means that staff members, all of them, should receive training on the expectations related to Board expectations.  Here is a list of expectations that can serve as a discussion points in orientation and training of new staff.

The Board of Directors can expect the staff to:

• Have objectivity in reaction to Board-Volunteer suggestions
  
• Conduct day to day business
• Have basic knowledge of the organization
• Manage programs to achieve goals/objectives
• Keep them informed
• Use them well with insight
• Be professional
• Know when to ask for help
• Handle the personnel management of paid staff and volunteers
• Pay attention to details
• Use time wisely
• Exhibit openness in individual/organizational relationships
• Adequately prepare for meetings
• Share leadership with volunteers
• Provide accurate, complete, and concise information