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"Kathy C. Yohalem was an incredible change agent for our system of care. The cultural shift thanks to her impact was significant and powerful. Culture change is hard work and it takes much effort, discipline and strategic guidance. We would not have obtained the results we needed without Kathy’s wisdom, insights and direction."

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10 Tips for Keeping Your Board Action Oriented with High Performance Input and Staying the Course

Minding Your Business
Column by Kathy C. Yohalem - Strategist and senior business advisor for not-for-profits and many other industries.


Machiavelli (1532) said, "Take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things." We need to pay attention to our board and its individual members, and guide them on the "new order of things."

We all want enthusiastic, action-oriented board members who pay attention and get things done. But high-performing boards don't just happen. It takes time, clear focus, and careful strategies to get them there.

Here are 10 tips for creating a board that can deliver.

1. Relate to their passion. - What do they care about? Open their hearts.

   
   

2. It's all about the experience for the board member. - What are they contributing? Are they enjoying the experience?

   
   

3. Make the meetings sparkle with enthusiasm - generate big-picture issue discussion. - How can you utilize each member's talents, skill sets, and passion for the cause?

   
   

4. Are there social meetings scheduled to create collegiality & allow for networking? - Is there a social calendar in place?

   
   

5. Are agendas focused with specific action items to address? - Focus, Focus, Focus, with clear priorities to the agenda.

   
   

6. Focus on timelines & clarity on what needs to be done and by when. - Are timelines and direction clear?

   
   

7. Focus on increase of reach for the cause. - Show them how to spread the word about your great work in the community(ies).

   
   

8. Maintain an exciting vision with positive energy. - Keep it positive with clear vision.

   
   

9. Keep them involved in your philanthropy budget - its focus & directives, and keep them focused on the organization's dollar needs.

   
   

10. Have you thanked your board member? - Personally?

3 Tips for Changing The Way You Promote Your Not-For-Profit Or Charity Using Social Media

Post, tweet, share with us what you would like to know. The "Minding Your Business" column will also recommend business solutions to you. Just ask - send us a post with your questions.

Minding Your Business
Column by Kathy C. Yohalem - Strategist and business advisor for not-for-profits, and many other industries

1. Social media is a conversation or dialogue - the conversation is a 2 way dialogue.
• Engage your members, followers or constituents.
• Be interactive - ask your followers for suggestions and feedback.
• Create a personal connection - fans are loyal, they will keep coming back.
  


2. Don't just sit there - be active and responsive.
• Respond a few times a week to your constituents.
• Keep your posts updated and respond to tweets within 24 hours.
• Create an environment where sharing is valued.


3. Social media has in its power - to share and spread information quickly to increase your reach to new audiences.

Share your suggestions, comments, or any tips that we can share with others....

...sharing is valued.