Category: Board of Directors
Boyd's blogs about BOD
An advisory board for business or ministry is a must for those whose desire is to make the best decisions. My friend Adam Strange—out of necessity—has created a really cool process he follows in filling his advisory board roles.
- I shared Adam’s one pager recently with a group of 70 businessmen in Wichita, Kansas, and it was well received. It may help you.
Our Ministry Ventures’ board has its own quirks and dysfunctions, but one thing we’re not is boring. We are a broadly gifted group of highly motivated, type-A leaders. None of us lacks an opinion or confidence. Fortunately we all are accountable to check our egos at the door and begin our board meetings in humble prayer and dependence on the Lord. All this being said, make sure you are not overly harmonious, or you will run off good, bored board members.
- Patrick Lencioni in his excellent book, Death By Meeting, describes how the most effective meetings resemble a good movie; they’re full of conflict. I think he is right, and applied in the ministry world we have to be more intentional and invite healthy debate. Perhaps you add, “Bang the Table” as a board agenda item, but place it strategically after your prayer time. Conflict keeps people awake.
- Board members who are not bored show up on time for board meetings, and they bring energy and enthusiasm with them. They feel valued when they are able to apply their experience and expertise to the strategic direction of the ministry. Invite their participation and you will retain their involvement.
- I dare you at your next board meeting to declare it, “A bored free zone board!”
- Additional resource: Nailing Down a Board by Charles Ryrie