A board of directors that is committed to ongoing development will ensure a board orientation process is in place.
Board development processes help communicate to the board members the organization’s purpose and structure. Strategies of ongoing board development provide the directors with the appropriate knowledge required to be effective decision makers. Board development activities can also help motivate the members in their positions.
Board orientation is a key element to the board development process. As new directors are recruited, board orientation assists them with understanding their purpose and the organization. Seasoned board members appreciate the orientation process as an opportunity to refresh their knowledge of the organization.
Orientation Sessions
During the beginning of the board’s term, many organizations hold orientation sessions for both the new board members and the returning board members. These orientation sessions can be in the form of presentations, group discussions, or information-sharing meetings. Organizations can also plan a board retreat to focus on orientating the board.
The board chair can lead a discussion with the new board members of the organization’s values and services. During the discussion, the chair can refer to the board’s work plan and how it relates to the organization’s strategies.
Staff members of the organization can lead tours of the facility for the new board members. This will help the directors to become familiarized with the programs and structure, as well as those involved with the organization.
The board chair or the board committee chairs can organize a committee orientation presentation. This can include describing each committee and its purpose, reviewing each committee’s work plans or assignments, and becoming familiar with each committee’s terms of reference.
Orientation Manual
An orientation manual should be provided to each director at the start of his or her service. This manual can assist the director with becoming familiar with the organization and its operations, the functions of the board, and the expectations of each director. Throughout the term, the manual serves as a useful reference tool for the board and the members.
In order to be effective, the orientation manual should be reviewed with the board members. It should also be kept up to date as policies change or are introduced. The manual should include:
- the organization’s mission statement;
- the history of the organization;
- a description of the board’s structure and operations, including meeting dates and job descriptions;
- a copy of the bylaws;
- a manual containing all framework, self-governance, operational, and advocacy policies;
- the organization’s strategic plan;
- financial information, including the organization’s budget, audit, investments, insurance and funding information;
- a description of the board’s committees and their terms of reference; and
- the names and contact information of each director.
At the completion of the board orientation process, directors can be encouraged to provide feedback and recommendations. This will help strengthen the process for the future. The board chair can periodically involve the directors in one-on-one reviews of the members’ progress following the orientation.
