THE WHOWEKNOW FIELD GUIDE

How to Activate Your Nonprofit Board’s Network

A practical first-week plan for turning “I’m happy to help” into a useful next step.

1. Choose one need people can recognize

Start with a live priority. Instead of “help us fundraise,” try “help us find a sponsor for the spring gala.” For volunteering, explain the activity, the time commitment and who would be a good fit. Keep the outcome narrow enough that a board member can understand it quickly.

2. Explain the action, not just the ambition

A fundraising target explains the goal, but not the member’s task. Ask for an introduction to a partnerships team, a suggestion of an employer with volunteer days, or a conversation with someone experienced in event planning. Say when that step would be useful.

3. Give the prospect enough context

If a particular company or person is relevant, identify them clearly and explain why. A LinkedIn profile can help prevent confusion between similarly named people. Do not infer that a member knows someone simply because they work in the same industry.

4. Make it easy to respond honestly

Allow room for a strong connection, a tentative lead or no connection at all. The purpose is to discover where help is realistic. A low-pressure request and a specific task are more constructive than asking every board member to commit to the same activity.

5. Assign a coordinator to every next step

When someone offers help, acknowledge it and clarify who will do what. Agree on the next action and a realistic date. Keep that commitment visible and update it when circumstances change.

6. Tell the member what happened

Close the loop after an introduction or volunteer contribution. Share the real outcome, including when a conversation is still in progress. Keep confirmed gifts separate from prospective sponsorships and introductions. Even a small update shows that the member’s effort mattered.