A first indicator is whether the board, as a group, reflects the composition of the membership and whether it possesses the necessary competencies and experience. Other recommendations and points of attention, in no particular order, include:
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Keeping the organization’s finances in good order
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As a board (or board member), creating space for and participating in activities that inspire and motivate members
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The ability to build external relationships and partnerships
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Entrepreneurship, in the sense of continuously identifying new opportunities, showing courage, and taking risks to serve members
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Providing prompt feedback to members who come forward with questions, suggestions, and complaints
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Paying attention to internal communication with members: when necessary, personally as an individual board member and formally as a collective board
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Ensuring diversity in the composition of the board, including talents, experiences, connections with member groups, age, gender, and educational background
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Ensuring openness and transparency in board elections
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Timely encouragement and involvement of future leadership talent, especially younger members
Reference
J. Birchall & S Sachetti, 2017. The comparative advantages of single and multi stakeholder cooperatives, Paper voor International Cooperative Research Conference, Stirling University.