Offboarding Board Members

Your organization’s board of directors is crucial to the success of your organization.  Boards spend significant time and energy recruiting candidates with the right skills, values, and commitment for their organization.  But what happens when a board member’s term ends? 

New board members normally go through an onboarding process to give them an understanding of the organization and get them up to date on current issues.  However, how many organizations go through an offboarding process when a board member’s term ends?

Your board members are some of your greatest supporters and ambassadors for your organization.  When they step away from their board position, they must continue a relationship with them. 

Below are some suggestions to keep outgoing board members involved with your organization.

• Ask them if they’d be interested in serving on a committee.
• Ask them if they’d like to serve as a volunteer within the organization.
• Invite them to your organization’s annual fundraiser.
• Invite them to other events held by the organization.
• Send them newsletters or emails to keep them informed on the organization’s happenings.

Finally, ensure that you recognize them for their support and dedication to your organization as they leave their board role.  Individuals are not normally paid for their board service so be sure to show them that their service was appreciated.

Posted by: Carrie Minnich, CPA