Spoiler: It might be your Board.

Hey Nonprofit Leader, What’s Keeping You Awake at Night?

This is the fourth installment in our ongoing saga—er, series—on nonprofit boards. We’ve talked about recruiting the right members, clarifying their roles, and now it’s time to ask: Are they actually doing their job? (Cue the nervous laughter.)

Because let’s be honest: an engaged, informed board is a dream. But a disengaged, uninformed one? That’s the kind of nightmare even melatonin can’t fix.

This Week’s Topic: Evaluating the Board’s Work

How do you know if your board is fulfilling its fiduciary and governance responsibilities? If your only metric is “Well, we haven’t shut down yet,” we need to talk.

Let’s break down how to evaluate your board without triggering a group existential crisis:

Step 1: Personal Check-In (a.k.a. The Mirror Test)

Every board member should start with a little self-reflection. Ask yourself:

• Did I show up to board meetings prepared (not just present)?

• Did I attend the retreat? Committee meetings? The gala?

• Have I contributed to the annual fund—and invited others to do the same?

• Did I share my contact list with the ED or just nod politely when asked?

• Am I speaking up and listening during board discussions?

If you can’t say “yes” to most of these (no shame, we all fall short sometimes), maybe it’s time to recommit—or gracefully step aside for someone who has the time and energy to step up.

Step 2: Assess the Board’s Brainpower

Now look at the board as a whole:

• Are the skills and perspectives diverse?

• Are you heavy on finance folks but light on marketing minds?

• Got lots of passion but not enough governance chops?

Diversity isn’t just a checkbox—it prevents groupthink. And if you’re not sure where the gaps are, I have the perfect tool: a Board Profile Grid. Hit me up if you’d like a copy.

Step 3: Watch the Vibes

How do your fellow board members show up?

• Do they understand the organization’s mission and what makes it special?

• Are they champions of the ED, staff, and volunteers—or silent critics?

• Are expectations clear? Is the onboarding process more than “Here’s a binder and a muffin”?

No one needs a board member badmouthing the org at brunch. Support happens inside and outside the boardroom.

Step 4: Audit Your Meetings

• Do board agendas reflect the real priorities of the organization?

• Do you know how to get something on the agenda?

• Are all voices heard—or just the loudest?

The board speaks in one voice, yes—but it should first be a chorus, not a solo.

Step 5: Celebrate and Improve

Take a moment to reflect:

• What were your board’s top two accomplishments this year?

• What got left behind (and shouldn't have)?

• What best practices have you seen elsewhere that could work here?

• And most importantly: What do you enjoy about being on this board?

Final Thought: Self-Evaluation + Action = Real Impact

A board self-assessment isn’t just a feel-good exercise. It’s a strategic tool to uncover gaps, elevate performance, and better serve your mission. But it only works if you follow through.

Be honest. Be brave. And be ready to improve.

Because a thoughtful, proactive board? That’s the stuff of sweet dreams—not sleepless nights.

Ready to evaluate your board? Let’s make it happen. I can walk your board through a meaningful self-assessment process and help turn reflection into action.

Contact me if you're ready to get started. Your future self (and your board chair) will thank you.