Identifying and recruiting a new board member is not easy. Who to choose and how to determine whether this will be a successful relationship are constantly balanced with what will this person add to the board and will this person live up to expectations? The following document will help you evaluate the criteria for your search. This has proved valuable for many organizations.

• Suitability
  • Will he/she fulfill an important role on the board?
  • Does he/she possess a degree of competence and experience needed on the board?
  • Is he/she in a position of influence with others who are important to the success of the congregation? Is he/she likely to use that influence?

• General Preparation
  • Does he/she have a basic understanding of the problems, plans and potential for the congregation?
  • Is he/she well versed in the congregation’s history, mission and vision and is he/she prepared to stay on top of relevant trends?
  • Does he/she understand the roles and responsibilities of board members?

• Specific Preparation for Action
  • Will he/she come fully prepared for board meetings?
  • Will he/she completely read all relevant background materials prior to meetings?
  • Is he/she inclined to ask probing and insightful questions at board meetings?
  • Will he/she conduct outside research to enhance the work of the board?

• Ambassadorship
  • Will he/she be able to accurately, enthusiastically and often speak on behalf of the congregation?
  • Will he/she use personal contacts on behalf of the congregation?

• Resource Development Participation
  • Is he/she willing to make a significant gift?
  • Will he/she identify donor prospects?
  • Will he/she willingly solicit gifts?

• Community Activity
  • Will he/she serve actively on at least one board committee?
  • Will he/she suggest new ways of enhancing/growing the congregation?

• Attendance at Board and Committee Meetings
  • Will he/she commit to attending regularly scheduled meetings?