Recruiting for Your Board
Recruiting for your board can be challenging, but the good news is, there are plenty of people interested in board roles and actively looking to find the right fit for them. Research* we conducted with volunteers in 2018 showed that 38% of respondents were seeking a trustee role and over half would be open to sitting on a board in the future.
Now more than ever it is critical to have a board with a range of skills and experience to help navigate the challenges facing your organisation – new regulation and governance requirements, Covid-19 restrictions and reduced income, to name just a few.
It’s worth taking some time to think about how you go about recruiting. Ask yourself:
Are you ready?
- who you are looking for?
- how you will reach them?
- how you will attract them?
- and importantly, how you will hang on to them?
Is your board ready?
- Is training needed
- What does your Constitution allow you to do?
Guide to Planning for Board Recruitment
1. Identify key skills gap
- What does your board look like at the moment
- what expertise or skills will help it to develop?
2. Agree the board role description
This should cover the main responsibilities and expected commitment, as well as key skills and qualities required. Include details of any supports and training provided and the potential benefits of being involved.
3. Draw up a Recruitment Plan
Outline all the key steps and responsibilities with timelines.
4. Advertise
consider the language that will attract your target audience. What would motivate them to join your organisation? The Volunteer Centre can advise on drafting the role advert and getting the word out to potential volunteers.
4. Shortlist & Interview Candidates
Does your Board Handbook or induction pack need to be updated? Check what training is available and consider a buddy mentoring system with an experienced board member for the first few months.
Where to recruit?
I-VOL national database, Boardmatch, ActiveLink, LinkedIn, your networks, supporters, website, social media, specialist or professional representation groups, community radio, notice boards etc.
Additional Support Available
- Carmichael
- The Wheel
- The Charities Regulator
- Charities Institute Ireland
- Public Participation Network and your local Partnership
Further Information
To discuss your needs and see how we can support you best, please contact: support@volunteerdublincity.ie
*Research carried out in 2018 as part of TrustIE pilot project to establish needs of community groups with regard to board membership and roles. 352 organisations and 202 volunteers responded to survey.