Although association board members are volunteers, having clearly defined “job” descriptions for them is critical to moving projects and initiatives forward and making the volunteer experience a meaningful one. A well-defined job description should define a board member’s role as a representative of the association and clearly identify his or her responsibilities. The job description should also establish the qualifications and set expectations for the position. A job description that accomplishes those four items can help create a path for greater volunteer satisfaction and increased board member productivity.
Elements of a Defined Board Member Job Description
Expectations
Since board members represent the association both internally and externally, the job description should include the expectation that board members understand and embrace the association’s mission statement and are ready to uphold the core values and strategic initiatives that support that mission statement. Defining this expectation upfront helps prepare board members to act as ambassadors of the association to fellow members as well as spokespersons to the public.
Job Qualifications
An effective board of directors composes individuals with complementary skills. Defining the requirements of each position facilitates the process of matching the most appropriate person for the job. Although all board positions require a particular combination of qualifications, the “job” of a board member may necessitate a certain set of skills and qualifications depending on the role (i.e. finance management skills for the Treasurer position, public speaking for the President/Chair, etc.). Understanding the skills needed for each position on the board and defining those qualifications at the beginning of the leadership vetting process may foster a smoother election process and lead to a better-equipped team of people to lead the association.
Leadership Responsibilities
The “job” of the board member includes various leadership roles: liaison, manager, spokesperson, coach, mediator, facilitator, and cheerleader. It is imperative that board members understand their leadership responsibilities to foster transparent communications, empower project and program teams, and nurture a collaborative working environment.
Having clearly defined job descriptions for board positions allows the board as a whole to operate at its highest strategic level to uphold the mission and goals of the association.
