In our Third Sector Connector LinkedIn Group, a colleague recently posted this question: "Who makes up the ideal board of directors? I am looking for info on a small board start up for a nonprofit. Thank you."

I thought other members might want to chime in, so I decided to post my answer here for her (and link to it so that she can easily access the dialogue), so here it goes!

Deborah - That's an important question since your Board is ultimately responsible for leading the organization and setting critical direction based on your vision, mission, and strategic goals. All too often, I've heard people advise others to put together a skills matrix and recruit based on essential job functions. For instance, you need someone with financial savvy, so you recruit a CPA. You need someone to help with marketing, so you recruit a PR or marketing pro. You need legal advice so you recruit an attorney. You need diversity that mirrors the composition of your community.

While I agree that there's something to be said for identifying critical needs, I think that my colleague Hildy Gottlieb has articulated a model in her book, The Pollyanna Principles, which is a perfect opportunity for a nonprofit that's just getting started! In essence, she suggests that we recruit and foster boards that "Govern for What Matters" and that are learning communities focused on the mission, vision and values of the organization. You have the chance to start from scratch and bring on the people who are truly committed to visionary community change, instead of those who hold particular job titles or who meet specific diversity criteria.

Here's a link to our tips archive that provides lots of great resources on boards and shared governance.

Addition to original post: This link on creating a code of ethics also has some great questions and could be a great starting point for a new Board, too.

Anyone else have some advice to share?