Dealing With Board Directors

Prevention is the best method to handle difficult board members. Make sure that your agency’s goals for board members are clear, and that they are able to align their vision with the organisation. This will reduce the amount of instances when the advice of a member of the board is not beneficial. If there is a problem be quick to address it and don’t overlook bad behavior. Doing nothing will only make it worse.

It begins by establishing a direct, one-on-one discussion with the person who is causing the problem. Be professional and calm, but also direct and state your concerns clearly. In the ideal situation, the person will agree with you and alter their behavior, however in the event that this doesn’t work, try taking the initiative to initiate a group intervention with the chair and/or someone other board member whom the chair holds in high esteem. You might want to look over the values statement of your organization or other governing documents for words that could serve as a standard for acceptable behavior, for example, treating people with respect.

Another alternative is to request the person to leave the board (ideally by a voluntary decision but, if necessary it can be done through a vote of confidence). This will require careful preparation and planning prior to the meeting or discussion. For instance, make sure you are aware of the major issues you’d like to discuss and prepare an organized response in place. Also, ensure that your tone is polite but firm. Don’t be afraid to assert yourself.

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