Who do you choose to head up the most important committees at your organization? If you are like most organizations, such committees are almost exclusively comprised of board members. However, committees are often meant to facilitate the board’s work - not replicate it.

Action idea: You might decide to add individuals who are not members of the board to certain committees. These individuals do not necessarily need to possess the same capabilities as board members. Instead, they should be able to complement them.

Nevertheless, be aware that this can be a double-edged sword. There are both positive and negative aspects to this novel approach.

The Positive Aspects
An influx of participation from the outside creates some relief for an overburdened board. In effect, this expands the size of the board, which otherwise may be restricted by the statute or charter. More often than not, board members will welcome the assistance.

Inviting new people to join committees may also provide an opportunity to recruit future board members. Serving on a committee gives nonboard members some practical experience and a way to gauge their commitment. This can be especially beneficial for young professionals with limited exposure to the governmental world. Note that committee membership is not as work-intensive as being a board member.

Committee membership may attract people with different skill sets. For example, you might gain access to computer technicians or other professionals who are not currently represented on the board. This can broaden the scope of your entity’s endeavors.

A more diverse group may also lead to a wider range of perspectives. While this is not always advantageous in board meetings, it can be a distinct advantage in the committee forum. For boards that require a substantial financial commitment, it may be helpful to detour from the “tunnel vision” that often exists.

Finally, past board members may be agreeable to serving on a committee, lending their expertise to the proceedings. This is considerably less demanding than a full-fledged board commitment.

The Negative Aspects
Including people who are not board members on committees could discourage board members who might be losing interest, especially on larger boards. By doing so, you may be disrupting the delicate balance that has finally taken shape. It may take extra effort to develop a complementary team of board members.

Other board members who fear a loss of prestige might be reluctant to bring in nonboard members to fill critical roles on committees. They could also object to a perceived “invasion of turf.”

However, if you can educate board members, they may become more receptive to the concept. This can bring valuable new resources to the organization and enhance the decision-making process. If handled properly, it does not have to dilute the contributions of long-time board members.

Action idea: Present the idea to board members before you commit to nonboard members joining committees. Outline the positive factors and put the measure to a vote.

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