Effective non-profit boards--Lessons Learned from Over 50 Years

Yesterday I heard an amazing presentation about effective boards that affirmed much of what I've learned about fundraising over the past four years.  The Honorable Robert Oliver, a retired judge, spoke to the Fresno chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.  One of Fresno's top volunteers, he has many years of wonderful experiences.  Here's a list of 10 tips he offered:

1. The most important piece of paper you have is the note card you write to thank someone, acknowledge an accomplishment or an occasion or just to let them know you were thinking of them.  Four cards a week was Bob's suggested goal.  I'm going to shoot for doubling that.
2. Have an elevator speech and have it printed for your board members on a 3x5 card so they can give it.
3. For a relationship to be mutually satisfying, you have to consider the needs, wants and goals of your prospect.  Be nimble and do your research.  Listen to your prospect.  What are their needs?  "We together..."
4. To engage board members who are hesitant, say to them, "Help me understand what you mean when you said..."  Ask them to talk to others in the community, make calls, introduce you to friends.
5. There are three questions board members can ask that will help your organization:  1.  Can I buy you a cup of coffee? 2.  Can I show you..(a tour, an accomplishment etc).  3.  Will you help me?
6. People love to know who gave.  Print lists of your donors (and not just online).
7. Be honest about your expectation of board members.
8. Have a development committee that is made up of "true believers" who are able to help encourage other board members to fulfill their obligations (i.e. Did you make 10 calls?  Did you ...)
9. Trust is critical.  If people trust you, they will listen to you.
10. Fundraisers and effective board members are cheerleaders, story tellers, ambassadors, team players, listen well, can hold a confidence and are candid.

And, as a bonus, #11.  After you've made the ask, be quiet.