Tips for Directors

Tips for Directors

• Know the bylaws and constitution.
• Inform yourself about the activities and operations of the organization. “The less you know the greater the risk you put yourself in”.
• Insist on receiving relevant information related to board decisions in advance and be prepared to participate in decision making.
• Review the minutes and ensure corrections are made. Insist the minutes record disclosure, dissent or refraining from voting.
• Be prepared to make decisions. Avoid being a rubber stamp.
• Ensure appropriate information reporting and other management systems are in place i.e. annual audit.
• Respect confidentiality.
• Avoid conflict of interest. If in doubt declare a conflict and don’t vote.
• Insist that the organization protect directors by indemnification and insurance.
• Monitor the financial health of the organization i.e. tax receipts to ensure value not inflated, against disbursements if there is a question of insolvency.
• Ensure committees report to Board and obtain approval for their actions.
• Keep personal notes at meetings.
• Keep a binder or file with all minutes and other documents together.
• Insist on written legal and other professional opinions where necessary.
• Ensure that the organization assesses the risk to the activities and minimizes, eliminates, reduces or avoids them.
• Resign if you feel affairs are not conducted in proper, responsible and legal manner in accordance with wishes of general membership.