Does Your Board Know What to Do?

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce Executives (MCCE) association receives a number of calls this time of year related to board governance and the responsibilities of directors. Frequently, when new directors come on board-- especially inexperienced members--they tend to be overwhelmed with what their responsibility to the organization is.

Are they "the boss?" Are they a volunteer? Do they come with new ideas? Are they expected to participate in everything? Should they observe for a while or jump in?

As organizations grow and develop history, it's important for volunteers to understand how they fit in the Chamber culture. Each community is different and has varied expectations for its volunteers, from fundraising and fiscal guidance to event participation and membership recruitment. A couple of suggestions for orienting new members are to set up job descriptions for volunteers or by establishing a contract for participation.

MCCE will be hosting two seminar opportunities for Chamber Boards of Directors this year:
February 18: BEST PRACTICES Call on Board Governance
This session will cover Board Basics on:

• Bylaws
• Articles of Incorporation
• Board Responsibilities & Job Descriptions
• Organization Structures
• Constructive Committee Meetings

June 25: Responsibilities for Chamber Boards of Directors
A full day seminar with more in depth information on:

• Board / Staff Roles and Responsibilities
• Bylaws Review & Development
• Committee Roles and Structure
• Conflict or Interest / Ethics / Code of Conduct
• Job Description - Board, Officers, Committees
• Roberts Rules of Order