An engaged board can be one of a nonprofit’s greatest assets – but true engagement doesn’t happen by accident. It requires intentionality, clarity, and a commitment to building strong, two-way relationships. At moss+ross, we advise nonprofit leaders on strengthening board engagement and we work with board members on specific ways to contribute. Having served as both a Development Director and board member, I’ve seen the important ways board members and staff can work together to cultivate a partnership that advances the mission. 1. Be Crystal Clear About Expectations “Be engaged!” isn’t a job description. Set clear expectations: how should board members give, fundraise, attend, and advocate? What can they expect from the nonprofit leader? Begin defining expectations during onboarding and revisit regularly. A one-on-one review of an annual commitment document will create clarity and accountability – and offer an opportunity to tap into a board member’s passions. 2. Treat Them Like the Key Stakeholders They Are Skip the mass emails and impersonal asks for their financial support. Meet one-on-one with your board members. Ask for insights. Share stories. Say thank you. Customize your communications and interactions as you would with other major contributors to your organization. When board members feel valued, they give from purpose, not pressure. 3. Give Them a Reason to Grow See your board members as teammates forming a leadership team, not as seat-fillers. Bring in speakers who deepen their understanding of the mission, offer board development programs, and ask them to share ideas from their experiences. Have a mission moment in your board meetings to give them talking points and inspiration for their advocacy and networking. When they grow, so does your mission. 4. Know Their “Why” and Your “Why Them?” I joined a board to build governance experience, practice strategic planning skills, and grow my network. Dig into each board member’s individual motivations. Why did they say yes? What unique skills and relationships do they bring? And ask yourself: Why them? Using a board matrix can help you, your nominating committee, and your full board stay aligned with what skills, experience, and background your board has – and needs. Board engagement isn’t transactional – it’s relational. When nonprofit leaders nurture board relationships with intention, members feel engaged and the entire organization reaps the benefits. Are you looking for more ideas to strengthen your board? moss+ross is ready to support your board development needs. | 
