I should be used to it by now, but it still shocks me when volunteer board directors describe their board as “well-intentioned.” Immediately, I understand. Those who use this description alone to describe their board on some level realize their board’s performance is sub-optimal. Well-intentioned means having or showing good faith despite a lack of […]
Insights
How Smaller Social Change Orgs Can Land Biggish Bets [Financial Sustainability]
Once upon a time, the leaders of social change organizations focused on efficiency and sound programs as selling points. But today, that emphasis is shifting rapidly to collaboration, proven impact, and yes, donor-centric strategies like big bets. In this modernistic mix, social change organizations will be challenged to think bigger, build capacity, co-create and provide […]
Leaders Who “Reach” Beyond this Output Metric Understand True Impact [Social Impact Reporting]
The leaders of mission-driven organizations — whether nonprofit, for-profit, or hybrid B-Corps, now live and operate in a world where the need for an impact measurement convention is undisputed. Fundamentally, impact measurement is about helping organizations manage performance, learn, improve outcomes, and hold themselves accountable to those they serve. The value that is generated through […]
Getting to “Go!” 4 Ways Leaders of Mission-Driven Organizations Can Propel Boards to Action [Organizational Effectiveness]
In 2010, when I made the switch from a mid-level position in a for-profit company to the executive director of a large nonprofit, corporate foundation, I felt instantly frustrated by the level of consensus required to get anything done. I quickly realized that my new role required a more inclusive, consultative, and consensus-building approach with […]
