A well-run business or nonprofit requires a strong board of directors. A member of the board must bring a range of skills, insight and experience to the table to make strategic decisions and planning. They must be able to communicate effectively, keep in touch with each other between meetings, and be active when it comes to fundraising and networking.

Take a look at a variety of independent candidates who are acquainted with your field, and who are in alignment with your mission and vision. These might include trusted mentors, attorneys, CPAs, fellow entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, marketing professionals, educators, and financial experts. It is also beneficial to have board members with previous experience as a board member.

During the vetting process, make sure that the candidate is truly interested and willing to commit to becoming a board member. It’s a huge commitment and it may not be a good choice for all.

It is also important to know what other commitments they have in their lives, and be realistic about how much time they have available to the board. A board that isn’t doing its job or is overloaded is not productive.

It is more beneficial to have an even number of board members instead of a disproportionate one to keep ties from forming. You need sufficient board members to guarantee an quorum and to be able to receive good advice without being overloaded by too many http://www.boardmanagementsoft.net voices.