Strong nonprofit boards don’t just check boxes. They reflect, learn, and adapt. One of the most effective ways to improve board performance isn’t a new policy or a retreat, but pausing to ask a few simple questions:
- How are we doing as individual board members?
- How am I doing personally?
- And how are we doing as a full board?
BVU encourages organizations to regularly assess board performance on these three levels. Each serves a different purpose, but together they offer a full picture of engagement, effectiveness, and areas for growth.
#1: How are YOU doing as a board member?
Board Member Expectations & Accountability
This assessment is all about clarity and shared standards. Every board member should understand what’s expected of them, from attending meetings to making a financial contribution to being an ambassador in the community. When your board has a written Statement of Expectations, it becomes easier to:
- Recruit the right people
- Set a baseline for engagement
- Track participation consistently
- Have honest conversations when someone isn’t meeting expectations
Boards can track individual board member contributions using tools like dashboards, checklists, or participation logs. It’s not about being punitive – it’s about creating a culture where board service is taken seriously, and expectations are clear.
#2: How am I doing as a board member?
Board Member Self-Assessment
This is where reflection becomes personal. A self-assessment invites board members to look inward and think critically about their own engagement, leadership aspirations, and areas for improvement. A good self-assessment asks questions like:
- Am I satisfied with my current committee assignments?
- Am I attending meetings consistently and coming prepared?
- Am I making a meaningful contribution—financially and strategically?
- What skills or expertise can I bring to the board that I’m not using yet?
Self-assessments are also an opportunity to learn more about each board member’s background, networks, and interest in future leadership roles, which are essential insights for succession planning.
#3: How are WE doing as a board?
Board Development Assessment
This is the big-picture view. Board development assessments are designed to look at the board as a team, including its structure, effectiveness, and alignment with mission. Common areas to assess include:
- Board composition and diversity
- Committee structure and use
- Meeting efficiency and participation
- Understanding of fiduciary responsibilities
- Strategic engagement and fundraising effectiveness
- Relationship with the CEO or Executive Director
This assessment gives every board member a voice and provides a framework for setting collective goals. It can be done annually or every few years – what matters most is using the results to spark conversation and action.
Why All Three Assessments Matter
Each of these tools (board evaluation, self-assessment, and full board development) serves a unique purpose. But together, they create a 360-degree view of board performance. They:
- Build clarity and consistency
- Reinforce a culture of accountability
- Surface emerging leaders
- Create opportunities for dialogue and growth
- Help the board lead the organization with integrity and intention
Assessment Is a Leadership Practice
Assessing the board isn’t about checking a compliance box – it’s about leading by example. When board members take time to reflect on how they’re doing individually and collectively, it shows a deep commitment to the mission and to each other. If your governance committee is ready to introduce or refine your board assessment tools, BVU can help. We’re here to support strong boards that drive real impact.