New Board Member Orientation Process
BEST BOARD PRACTICES CHECKLIST:
NEW BOARD MEMBER ORIENTATION PROCESS
All new board members should participate in an orientation process shortly after election to the board. To design your board’s orientation process, consider these best practices.
Before Submitting the Prospective Director’s Name for Election
1. Meet with the prospective director and review a copy of the position description for a board member. Before agreeing to be nominated, a prospective director should understand the responsibilities and expectations of the position, especially the time required for board meetings, education, and public/community events.
- The board of one public hospital, whose members are elected by the County Commissioners, holds an orientation session for individuals seeking a board seat – so they can assess whether really want the job.
2. Make participation in orientation mandatory during the director’s first term. Do not reappoint directors who fail to fulfill this requirement.
3. Schedule an annual, new member orientation session well in advance on the board’s annual calendar, so all new members can set aside the date when they are elected