Use This Simple Question to Improve Board and Committee Member Engagement [SUBSCRIBERS-ONLY]

Keeping nonprofit organization Board and committee members engaged is often more art than science. The reason this task is so difficult is because of the delicate balancing act between gratitude and appreciation. It is relatively easy to show gratitude and thank volunteer leaders for attending meetings. It is another thing to make sure these volunteer leaders leave each meeting with a feeling that it was a good use of their time, that they were actively involved in discussions, and the organization appreciated and valued their input.

We often talk about how to improve the attendee, member, and donor experience. We endlessly discuss how we can ensure these individuals walk away with positive feelings and warm lasting memories. We need to adopt this same attitude and approach for volunteer leaders, especially regarding the Board and committee meetings that provide their main opportunity for interaction. In short, nonprofits need to be more aware of engagement among their volunteer leaders and actively search for satisfaction level clues.

Although there are many ways to do this, I have a favorite tactic that is easy to apply, provides insights into what is working and what is not, and is generally not perceived as disingenuous or confrontational. The tactic involves asking a simple, straightforward question: