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Board Assessment: How to Ensure High Standards

No matter the size or type of club, boards play a critical role in the success of the organization as a whole. One of the ways in which a board can, and should, monitor how much it is achieving is through frequent performance assessments. This does not have to be a long, time-consuming, expensive exercise. Instead, it should just be a habit.

Making the effort to complete a short questionnaire after each board meeting will help determine where improvements can be made; taking the time to solicit board feedback about an individual member’s performance at the end of their term (instead of automatically renewing their service) can help ensure high engagement and commitment; and completing the survey below (coupled with follow-up discussion) at least once a year can help create and maintain a high-performing board.  

At the end of the day, the best boards agree to hold themselves accountable and self-assessment is an important step in that direction.

Are We Leading Effectively?

Please address each statement with yes, no or sort of.

  1. We have the right mix of people around the board table.
  2. We have an effective board recruitment and orientation program.
  3. Board members are well prepared for their roles.
  4. A high level of trust exists between the board and the GM.
  5. We share a common vision of where the club is headed.
  6. We have a common understanding of the challenges/opportunities we face.
  7. Both senior management and board members feel appreciated and acknowledged.
  8. Board meetings are frequent enough to get the work done.
  9. Discussions at board meetings are focused and productive.
  10. Preparatory materials for board meetings meet everyone’s needs.
  11. Agendas for meetings are 80% strategic issues and 20% admin.
  12. We have good governance policies in place and follow them.
  13. Any conflicts are readily identified and addressed.
  14. Committees function well and utilize board skill sets.
  15. Every member of the leadership team is fully engaged.
  16. We ensure we have adequate time for reflection.
  17. We all hold ourselves accountable for results.
  18. Board chairman and the GM have a strong partnership.
  19. Serving as part of this leadership team is deeply rewarding.
  20. Each of us is clear on what our legacy will be.

Please fully explain any “no” or “sort of” answers.

Linda Crompton is principal of Crompton Consulting, which works with individual boards to help them fulfill their performance potential. She can be reached at [email protected] or 202-352-3385.

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