One of the bigger mistakes a board can make is recruiting a board member based on the merits of the organization and not the responsibilities of the position.
Some nonprofit boards wait too long in the recruiting process to explain what board service actually involves.
They talk about the mission.
They share the impact.
They build excitement.
And then…
After someone says yes…
The expectations slowly come to light. Sometimes over multiple board meetings.
By that point, it’s too late.
Why is this problematic?
New board members show up with different assumptions:
• How much time is required
• What “engagement” actually means
• Whether fundraising is expected
• How involved they should be between meetings
No one is wrong.
But no one is aligned.
And misalignment turns into:
• Missed meetings
• Low participation
• Quiet disengagement
• Mismatched expectations
• Frustration on both sides
Most boards avoid being too clear upfront because they’re worried:
“If we say all of that… they might say no.”
But here’s the reality:
The right people don’t walk away from clarity.
They’re drawn to it.
Strong boards do something different.
Before extending an invitation, they are explicit about:
• The role and responsibilities
• Time commitment
• Meeting expectations
• Fundraising responsibilities
• Committee involvement
• What success looks like
No surprises.
No assumptions.
Because a “yes” without clarity isn’t a real commitment.
It’s a guess.
If you want engaged board members…
Start by being clear while cultivating interest.
Not after they are onboard.