Board chairs seek passionate board members

Being a board member is not just about attending meetings and making decisions; it’s about making a difference. Your commitment to the organization ensures its long-term success. Being an effective board member requires more than knowledge and experience. It involves meeting preparation, strategic thinking, asking questions, effective collaboration with fellow directors, and going the extra mile. Passion for the role, the organization, and the cause fuels this commitment, which is why Board Chairs seek passionate board members.

Board Chairs know that knowledge & experience are not everything

Many believe that knowledge and experience in governance, law, or finance suggest strong potential for a prospective board member. It also makes sense to appoint a board member who is an industry expert who can provide valuable insights and access to strategic business connections.

However, you may be surprised to discover this is not a chair’s top priority when appointing a new board director. While board chairs value the insights and comfort gained from this level of knowledge and experience, they place even greater value on demonstrable passion for what the organization does or is trying to achieve. By this, I mean tangible actions and behaviors that clearly show your strong interest, enthusiasm, and commitment to an organization or cause.

Don’t get me wrong; all that knowledge can be a tremendous asset. However, that must be accompanied by the proper mindset… and chairs know this. Many have first-hand experience of appointing board members who, despite their knowledge and background, turned out to be terrible.

Conversely, they observe that a passionate attitude and strong team work ethic surpasses vast knowledge and experience on a successful board team. Chairs know that skills can be learned and knowledge can be gained, but this type of passion can not be manufactured. It is authentic, and it makes a difference.

Why do chairs seek passionate board members?

Because boards must work as a team

Board members must share the decision-making process to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively. When board members are passionate about the organization’s goals, they work together more cohesively, making informed decisions that align with the organization’s vision.

Passion within a board also encompasses shared values and ethics. Members who share similar passions also have aligned ethical standards that guide their decision-making process. The result is a board whose actions and decisions prioritize integrity and ethical principles.

Passion drives enthusiasm

Passionate board members bring enthusiasm. This enthusiasm fosters open communication and collaboration where all board members are comfortable expressing opinions and ideas. It encourages the exploration of innovative ideas and taking the time to make well-informed decisions that benefit the organization as a whole.

Passionate board members thrive on the success and growth of the organization. Their unwavering dedication to the mission drives them, ensuring the organization does not stagnate. Their enthusiasm is contagious, as they set an example that fosters an environment and culture that inspires drive and motivation throughout the entire organization.

Passion builds trust

Possessing and demonstrating an unwavering belief in the organization builds trust among stakeholders, including strategic partners and shareholders. Such enthusiasm can draw in new supporters and reinforce existing alliances, enhancing the organization’s growth and influence.

They are always willing to act as formal and informal ambassadors for the organization, and their genuine belief in its mission and goals allows them to advocate effectively. Whether engaging with potential investors or representing the organization at public or community events, their passion shines through, resonating with others.

Passionate board members are committed board members

Board chairs seek committed individuals willing to invest time and effort into driving positive change. Passionate board members are committed board members.

Chairs know that they:

• are motivated by passion, not by the potential remuneration or stature of the role.
• are willing to go above and beyond expectations of the role.
• are willing to serve on additional committees.
• are not scared to ask the hard questions.
• can focus on the big picture and long-term success.
• take the time to analyze all aspects of a decision, weighing up potential outcomes and impact.
• proactively seek ways to improve their own and the organization’s performance.
• are motivated to tackle challenges head-on.
• are, most importantly, always there when you need them.

What sort of passion do board chairs seek?

Chairs seek demonstrable passion shown through enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine belief in the organization and its mission. But what exactly does it mean to have demonstrable passion? And how can you, as a prospective board member, showcase your passion for what they do?

Demonstrable passion is about actions, not words

Demonstrable passion is actively showing dedication and commitment through actions and the results achieved. This requires a deep and authentic belief in the organization’s purpose and being motivated to make a positive impact.

Genuinely passionate board members don’t boast about their commitment and individual successes. They invest time, effort, and resources to further the goals of the board and the organization. They actively seek opportunities to contribute, whether through networking, attending events, or volunteering where needed.

How to demonstrate passion as a prospective board member

Identifying and showcasing this type of passion is challenging when pursuing a board career and applying for board director roles. Start by drawing on your individual passions, professional and personal. Next, consider your passions when compiling your list of organizations you would like to serve on the board of. Finally, begin strategizing how you can effectively showcase your passion for these organizations as a potential board member. Some of these actions you may need to put in place, well before approaching the organization about a potential board role.

Ways you can get involved and later showcase your passion include:

• Participate as a member, customer, or volunteer of the organization.
• Attend events hosted by the organization, the industry, and the competition.
• Have conversations with board members (past & present), employees, and customers.
• Be on the lookout for new opportunities or challenges for the organization.
• Suggest ways to improve the organization’s performance.
• Offer to help or make introductions.
• Stay informed about industry trends and news.
• Show your willingness to take on additional responsibilities (such as fundraising) or serve on committees.
• Be able to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your passion for the organization and its goals.
• Be able to show your passion for the industry by way of involvement and achievements.

You then need to be able to refer to your demonstrable passion when networking, talking to or pitching to board members, in your board application, and during a board interview.

In conclusion

Board chairs know that a deep understanding of and connection to the organization’s cause and vision is vital for an effective board. Passionate board members bring a level of commitment and responsibility that is unparalleled. Their unwavering dedication to the organization’s mission drives them to go above and beyond in supporting the goals of the chair, the board, and the organization.

When seeking new board members, chairs embrace candidates who share their passion for the organization and for serving on their board. While many of you believe that well-connected individuals are highly sought after, good chairs know that long-term board success lies in finding those who genuinely care about the organization and its goals.

Related Articles

What are the selection criteria for independent board members

How much do U.S. Independent Board Directors get paid?

Board Interview Preparation: Tips and Strategies