What can I do to to recruit new board members

You must believe that good directors are out there for your cause and some of them will welcome the opportunity to serve on your board. For five years I ran an Internet matchmaking service and I learnt the lesson: before starting the search you must believe that you will find a suitable match . The question is how to prepare  for the search and who to look for to maximize the chances of success.

1. Prepare a profile of your organization to use during a call, email or meeting with prospects. 

• Your cause and why you are passionate for it. It should briefly discuss the history of your organization, its accomplishments, why it is liked and future growth opportunities. This is the carrot.  
• Your current governance.  Explain how you manage your activities, committees, background of current directors and the role they play. Such details as number of meetings, time needed and financial commitment is discussed here. The background of directors is important because prospects are interested in making new friends and increase their connections. Comments on organization culture and testimonials are also helpful. This is beginning of their own matchmaking. 
• Your specific needs and role of new director(s).  The prospective director wants to know the role he/she can play-- like which committees and what is expected of a director including term limits if any. To reduce anxiety of rejection explain the selection process. This the warm up phase. 
• Anticipate questions or objections and be prepared to respond. Is it for me? How will it benefit me? Use testimonials from clients and directors to show the benefits. How much time is needed and can I spare it? What committee will I serve on? What is expected of me? How long is my commitment? Who's who in the organization? Will I be able to work with the governing team? Is the organization financially sound? What reputation does the organization enjoy?  You may seal the deal if you reach the Q & A phase.

2. Who to look for?  The most important criteria are:

• Their potential to contribute to your organization.
• Their availability. Consider the time of the day when the meetings are held and their specific time commitments including travel time.  
• Potential benefit to them from affiliation with your organization. 
• Your ability to interest them in your cause.
• Empty nesters, newly retired. 

3. Where to look?

• Your contact list
• Your Linkedin and Facebook friends
• Other non-profit organizations
• Service providers to nonprofits--lawyers, accountants, consultants
• Spread word of mouth
• Post on certain volunteer matching organizations

4. Next steps?