A Board Member Assessment can help evaluate a board member’s effectiveness, contributions, and alignment with the organization’s goals. Below are some key areas to consider when assessing a board member. You can use a scale of 1 to5 (1 = Needs Improvement,5 = Excellent) for each area.
Quick Board Member Assessment
1. Commitment
- How engaged is the board member in meetings and organizational activities?
- Does the board member demonstrate a commitment to the mission and vision of the organization?
2. Expertise
- Does the board member bring relevant skills and expertise that benefit the board?
- How well does the member contribute to discussions based on their area of expertise?
3. Diversity of Perspective
- Does the board member offer diverse perspectives that enhance board discussions?
- How willing is the member to consider and respect differing viewpoints?
4. Contribution
- How actively does the board member contribute to strategic planning and decision-making?
- Does the member take initiative in board projects or committees?
5. Collaboration and Teamwork
- How well does the board member work collaboratively with other members?
- Is the member respectful and supportive of fellow board members?
6. Governance Knowledge
- Does the board member understand governance practices and responsibilities?
- How well does the member stay informed about compliance and regulatory issues?
7. Fundraising and Resource Development
- Does the board member actively participate in fundraising efforts or resource development?
- How well does the member leverage their network for the organization’s benefit?
8. Evaluation and Feedback
- Is the board member receptive to constructive feedback?
- How open is the member to self-evaluation and improvement?
Scoring Your Assessment
Add up the scores for each area (maximum possible score: 40).
- Total Score: ___ /40
Interpretation
- 30-40: Excellent board member. This member significantly contributes to the board’s effectiveness and the organization’s success.
- 20-29: Good board member. There are strengths, but some areas require improvement for greater impact.
- 10-19: Needs Improvement. The member may need additional support or development to fulfill their role effectively.
Action Steps
- Strengths & Contributions: Highlight areas where the board member excels.
- Development Areas: Identify specific areas for growth and improvement.
- Opportunity for Discussion: Consider having a one-on-one discussion with the board member to provide feedback and express appreciation for their contributions.
Feel free to adjust the criteria based on your specific organizational needs or focus areas!