Procedural Trickery

A Municipal Council Member uses his knowledge of rules of order (parliamentary procedure) to advance proposals of questionable merit or to stall or block other initiatives. In another setting, the

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The Stonewalling CEO

A smooth-talking CEO has mastered the art of telling the Board what it wants to hear: “There is nothing to worry about. It was handled this morning,” or: “It’s not

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The Secretive Board Member

This member withholds crucial information that was given to her privately by staff or community members, since she has promised them secrecy. Potential Damage Withholding relevant information (gained privately under

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Impromptu Motions

A Board member stumbles as he attempts to articulate a motion, and the result is a poorly worded and flawed motion. Another member promptly seconds the motion and the Board

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The Disengaged Board Member

The disengaged Board member does not prepare for meetings, arrives late, reviews email//texts during meetings, leaves early, or misses meetings altogether. He/she usually does not take on any follow-up duties, and  is a master

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The Board’s Executive Director Performance Appraisal

The most important job of an Association or other not for profit board is hiring a superior executive director and then evaluating his or her performance to ensure that excellence is

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A Prevention Checklist for Boards and Their Directors

Before You Become a Director Learn about the organization’s goals, objectives, and programs. Make enquiries about the organization and its image in the community. Gather as much information about the

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Does Your Board Have Parking Lot Conversations?

Some Board members are quiet during meetings, but they engage in spirited discussions during breaks or in the parking lot after the meeting. Such conversations may include criticisms of decisions

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Strategic Planning During the COVID-19 Era

Since March 2020 many Associations and other not-for-profits have been drastically affected by COVID-19. This pandemic will be with us for many months, there is no doubt. A key part

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What If Your Board Suddenly Disappeared?

Executive Directors can spend a lot of time complaining about their boards – wanting them to leave them alone. But imagine, if you will, what would happen if you waved

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