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Finding a Nonprofit Board

Serving on a nonprofit board is great leadership experience. Plus you have the chance to support a cause you believe in. Chances are there is a board out there where you could be a perfect fit. But don’t jump onto the first board you find. If you’re not a right fit, the nonprofit could suffer and you could end up having a bad time. Read on to learn how you can find a perfect match and serve on a nonprofit board where you can make a difference.

Find Your Niche
It may be all about the nonprofit, but you have to consider yourself. First, take time to figure out what you want out of your board member experience. Think about the skills you have to contribute or ones you want to hone. Find out about meetings, responsibilities and time commitments by talking to friends and board members. That way you’ll know if what you want matches up with what they’re looking for.

Go Directly to the Top
Like most people, executive directs can’t tell what’s on your mind. You have to express your interest after you’ve narrowed your search for a nonprofit board. Get in contact with board members and the executive directors to let them know you have an interest in being on their board. There may not be a position open at this time, but now your name is on their radar when a position that matches your skills opens up.

Eliminate the Wait
Nobody has ever gotten something they wanted by sitting around and waiting for it to fall into their arms. So go out and look for openings that may be available right now. You’re your availability in LinkedIn and on your Facebook page. Search online for sites like boardnetUSA, which help individuals find a nonprofit board that needs members. Services like these will eliminate the waiting game and match you to a nonprofit board that needs assistance and matches your needs.

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