We all have them – that one board member or that clique of members who halt progress. They want things to be that same as they were 20 years ago, or positions themselves or their company – not the NPO – in a way that takes priority in board related matters. While these members are often (or at some point were) committed to and passionate about your cause, all the other stuff is now getting in the way.

Get other board members involved. Put other members of the board between yourself and the problem. Empower other board members to battle this issue head on, putting a peer between you and the problematic board member(s). Remember, your organization is not ONE PERSON. It is a collection of people who all make a difference in some way. They each deserve equal say. One problematic board member should never have more power than the rest of the group.

Let your board members know that they have the authority to speak up or to question actions/intentions. Empower them to be involved and take ownership of the group. Often times they will be able to take charge and solve the problem with much less drama.