What do you do when Board members frustrate you?
When I was a staff person, I would regularly get frustrated with Board members who didn’t seem to want to help with anything that remotely resembled fundraising. I know now that there are ways to put an expectation out there with new Board members to let them know they will need to fundraise. But at the time, it was hard to deal with!
So what can you do when a Board member frustrates you? Figure out what you can do to change yourself and do it. You can’t change other people, so don’t waste time thinking about it. Then try to move on and focus on something more positive.
Keep in mind that some people who are on Boards don’t know what they’re supposed to do or how to help you fundraise. A little education can go a long way with these folks. I’ve done lots of fundraising trainings for Boards over the past year and I believe that most people can be successful with a bit of support and direction.
Also remember to take a break and recharge your batteries. You’ll be much better at handling frustrations when you’re well-rested, well-fed, and have had some fun lately.
Great suggestions Sandy. I’ve had a couple of tough cookies on a board and it can be frustrating. It took some time but eventually I practiced accepting them for who they are and that I could not change their issues. At least in these cases it was not something they were intentionally doing to derail the group, but a matter of their personality and circumstances.
I discovered what they were really talented at and tried to funnel their attention and energy toward that. I also make a special effort to thank them and show appreciation for their contributions. It helped because now they feel like they are contributing and in general seem happier in their role on the board.