Last updated on Aug 18, 2024

Dealing with power struggles among charity board members. Can you navigate these challenges effectively?

Power struggles within charity boards can be a significant hurdle, potentially hindering the philanthropic mission. If you're involved with a charity, understanding how to navigate boardroom dynamics is crucial. Board members are often influential individuals, each bringing a unique set of skills and perspectives. However, when conflicts arise, the board's effectiveness can suffer. Addressing power struggles effectively requires a blend of diplomacy, clear communication, and a steadfast focus on the organization's goals. By acknowledging the issue and tackling it head-on, you can help ensure that your charity continues to operate smoothly and effectively.

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1 Recognize Signs

Recognizing the early signs of power struggles is key to preventing full-blown conflicts. You might notice subtle cues like frequent interruptions during meetings or an increasing number of decisions being made outside the boardroom. Sometimes, there's a clear divide in opinions that leads to factions within the board. Pay attention to changes in communication patterns, such as board members who were once collaborative becoming argumentative or withdrawn. By being observant and identifying these red flags early, you have a better chance of addressing the issues before they escalate.

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Helena Bee Yian Choo

❤️Servant leader of God | Fratelli tutti | Insight & Foresight | Live The Truth*The Way*The Life | Anchored in Christ (John 15) | Ambassador: citizen of Heaven | Salt & light to the ends of the world | Eternal Vision
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O how rampant and toxic that many decisions are made outside the boardroom. The same teams then take on other board positions for their ability to “work together”. Synodality is to enter into a sacred space empty to listen, discern, dialogue, deepen dialogues, discern, deliberate, decide and deliver. It calls for collective effort of all on the team, and not the collegial few who come full of themselves and decisions. Essentially, these parties may not even know “why” they are there in the first place. Who and what they serve has been confused and corrupted by self-interests. So yes, be vigilant to early signs of toxic behaviours that deprive communication and compromise communion.

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2 Open Dialogue

Maintaining an open dialogue is essential when dealing with power struggles among board members. Encourage transparent communication where everyone feels heard and respected. This can be facilitated through regular meetings that foster open discussion and by creating an environment where members are comfortable expressing their views without fear of retribution. It's important to remind everyone that while disagreements are natural, the focus should remain on the charity's objectives and the collective effort to achieve them.

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3 Define Roles

Clearly defining roles and responsibilities can alleviate power struggles by setting expectations for each board member. It's crucial that everyone understands their position and the limits of their authority. A well-documented governance structure helps prevent individuals from overstepping their boundaries and ensures that decision-making processes are followed correctly. When each member is aware of their role and the contributions expected of them, it can reduce the likelihood of conflicts arising from misunderstandings or perceived overreach.

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Vinod Nair

Branding, Marketing & Digital Transformation
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Among the 6 pointers in this article, this is the most crucial in determining the success of any charitable body. Let it be made clear from the very start that power held by the board is a responsibility to carry out its organisation's mission, not a privilege. Just like a functional democracy, full transparency is essential for all members to participate in the check and balance of the organisation's operations and performance. The charity goals set by the board with unanimous support of its members will be the standard by which the board is evaluated. Also, no incumbent, no matter how effective they are, should be allowed to hold on to board positions perpetually. Reasonable tenure can mitigate the risk or power abuse and monopoly.

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4 Mediate Conflict

When power struggles do occur, acting as a mediator can be an effective strategy. Listen impartially to all sides, striving to understand the root causes of the conflict. Encourage board members to focus on common goals rather than personal agendas. Sometimes, bringing in an external facilitator or consultant to guide the mediation process can offer a neutral perspective and help resolve the issues more efficiently. The goal is to reach a consensus that aligns with the charity's mission and values.

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5 Empower Collaboration

Fostering a collaborative environment can help prevent power struggles from taking root. Highlight the importance of teamwork and collective achievement over individual accolades. Encourage board members to work together on projects, emphasizing the synergy that comes from diverse talents and experiences. When members feel they are part of a cohesive group working towards a shared purpose, it can diminish the drive for individual power and promote a more harmonious board dynamic.

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6 Stay Mission-Focused

Ultimately, keeping the charity's mission at the forefront is the most effective way to navigate power struggles among board members. Regularly remind the board of the overarching goals and the impact their work has. When decisions need to be made, refer back to how each option aligns with the mission. This approach helps to depersonalize conflicts and recenter discussions on what is best for the organization, reducing the space for power plays and ego-driven decision-making.

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Dealing with power struggles among charity board members. Can you navigate these challenges effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Recognize Signs

2 Open Dialogue

3 Define Roles

4 Mediate Conflict

5 Empower Collaboration

6 Stay Mission-Focused

Philanthropy

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Dealing with power struggles among charity board members. Can you navigate these challenges effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Recognize Signs

2 Open Dialogue

3 Define Roles

4 Mediate Conflict

5 Empower Collaboration

6 Stay Mission-Focused

Philanthropy

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