Board Member Accountability vs. Ownership: Point Your Finger at Yourself First!
Updated: Aug 11
Board Member Accountability vs. Ownership:
Point Your Finger at Yourself First!
Accountability
Accountability is a term frequently tossed about in nonprofit board meetings. It manifests itself when board members point fingers at others implying that “they” need to be held responsible for their actions or lack thereof.
Accountability is usually reactive and comes into play when something goes wrong, or someone (or the entire board) didn’t do something, or someone isn’t doing something or meeting expectations. This external focus feels harsh and negative, and fosters a culture of blame and deflection, and diverts attention from the finger-pointers’ own shortcomings and contributions to the problem.
Ownership
Ownership, however, requires self-reflection, honesty, and a proactive approach to one's roles, responsibilities, and obligations. It’s about personal responsibility. It’s about “me” – what I can do, how I can contribute, and where I can make a difference. Simply put, ownership is “me,” accountability is “you.”
Ownership demands a shift from a blame-oriented culture to one where each board member feels empowered and responsible, and takes charge of their contributions and shortcomings, and the success of the organization. This means not waiting for someone to tell you what needs to be done but actively seeking out ways to step up and engage by making specific and meaningful commitments of time, skills, and resources.
Conclusion
Nonprofit board members must stop hiding behind the veil of accountability and start embracing ownership. Pointing fingers and blaming others is a destructive practice that only serves to weaken the organization.
Instead, each board member must take a hard look at their performance and ask themselves if they are truly fulfilling their roles, responsibilities, and obligations.
The success of a nonprofit organization hinges, in large part, on the dedication and commitment of its board members. By taking personal ownership, board members can ensure that they are not just passive participants but active drivers of positive change.
The result will lead to a higher performing, more unified board, that effectively propels the mission and impact of their organization.
Your Wits End is My Passion
My life’s passion is about building engaged boards and high-performance nonprofits. If you’re at your wit’s end and need help building a culture of engagement, leadership, and work for your board, call me; it would be a privilege to help facilitate a board retreat, developoment day, or culture building day.
First Things First
Tom Iselin
858.888.2278
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