Summary of The Little Book of Boards: A Board Member's Handbook for Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits by Erik Hanberg

Unlock the essentials of nonprofit board membership with Erik Hanberg's 'The Little Book of Boards.' Transform your board's effectiveness today!

Welcome to the ultimate crash course on board membership for small (and very small) nonprofits, packed into a handy size because we all know that no one has time to sift through endless chapters. The Little Book of Boards is a delightful guide that proves being a board member doesn't have to feel like deciphering hieroglyphics.

Let's face it, if you've found yourself in the realm of non-profit boards without a map, you're not alone. Erik Hanberg swoops in like a superhero with a caped crusader's agenda, teaching you the essentials without overwhelming you with fancy jargon. Think of it as your trusty sidekick-one who actually knows what they're talking about and isn't just good for comic relief.

From the get-go, Hanberg emphasizes that board members, particularly in small organizations, are not just occasional attendees of awkward meetings with stale donuts. Oh no, he makes it clear that board members are crucial players in steering the ship. He breaks down their responsibilities into digestible chunks (thank goodness because nobody wants to navigate murky waters) and explains why your presence matters. It turns out, it's not just about having a fancy title; it's about rolling up your sleeves and actually doing some work.

Here are some sparkling gems you can expect to find in this handbook:

1. The Basics of Fundraising: Because money is the lifeblood of any nonprofit, Hanberg gives you the skinny on not just asking for funds but how not to sound like a used car salesperson while doing it. Spoiler alert: nobody likes a guilt trip.

2. Building the Board: Hanberg doesn't just leave you high and dry with a bunch of roles to fill. No, he goes into how to recruit, retain, and even fire board members (who knew that was part of the job?). Spoiler: it's less like a reality TV showdown and more like guiding a bunch of passionate folk towards one common goal.

3. Strategic Planning: Enough with the aimless wandering! Hanberg outlines how to create a roadmap for your organization, ensuring everyone stays on track and no one ends up looking like a lost puppy.

4. Effective Meetings: Let's be real-most meetings are about as exciting as watching paint dry. Hanberg gives tips on how to keep those meetings productive. You'll learn how to avoid that dreaded moment when someone brings up that one pesky issue for the fiftieth time. (Note: Bring snacks. Lots of snacks. The golden rule).

5. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Just like navigating a minefield, Hanberg helps you dodge the common missteps that could turn your nonprofit into a hot mess express. Nobody wants to be that board that derails the train, right?

In a nutshell, The Little Book of Boards is like having a wise mentor caught on a page. Hanberg delivers straightforward advice mixed with a sprinkle of humor, making the serious stuff palatable for all board members, from the greenhorns to the seasoned pros.

So, if you're ready to transform your board from "just there" to "can't live without," grab a copy of this little gem and dive in. Trust me, your nonprofit (and future board meetings) will thank you for it.

Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.