Launching Your Board Recruitment Outreach

Our board recruitment series covered essential steps to finding and recruiting top-tier board members for nonprofits. We began with board recruitment planning—the crucial first step is defining the specific types of board members your organization needs, setting selection criteria, outlining your recruitment strategies, and determining costs and potential sources for finding these board members. Next, we discussed creating the tools and content for board outreach, which are crucial to effectively communicating your mission. Today, we dive into the third step: launching your board recruitment outreach itself and doing so strategically.

Crafting Compelling Board Recruitment Content

Before launching, let’s revisit the content you developed in step two. The tone and focus of your content are critical because it’s common to see organizations make a simple yet costly mistake: their outreach sounds like a job posting rather than an invitation to join a mission. Many nonprofits mistakenly frame their board roles in job-centric terms—phrases like “we’re seeking a board secretary” or “looking for a board treasurer.” This approach attracts people looking for another job, not those who want to bring their passion to the boardroom and provide strategic support.

Instead, center your outreach around your mission and vision—these draw the right people in. Once they’re intrigued by your mission, you can outline roles, expectations, and the type of support your board needs. By focusing on the bigger picture, you’ll attract board members who align with your purpose and are eager to offer their expertise.

Launching Your Board Recruitment Outreach: Five Proven Methods

Here are the effective outreach methods we use at Solutions Matter, LLC. We’ve consistently seen success connecting nonprofits with qualified board members.

1. Leveraging Known Contacts

Begin by listing out contacts you already know and admire. This group can include colleagues, mentors, or individuals in your network whose values align with your mission. Tailor your outreach specifically for these known contacts. When reaching out to people in your personal and professional circles, highlight how their unique skills and experience can impact your organization. Personalized messaging is critical here—it demonstrates respect for their time and expertise.

2. Social Media Outreach

Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be highly effective for board outreach. You can leverage your personal and organizational pages to share content that resonates with your ideal board candidates. Additionally, seek out specific online groups where individuals who fit your board’s needs gather. Engage in these spaces to encourage interest in your organization. Once potential candidates respond, invite them to an interview to assess their alignment with your mission.

3. Job Posting Platforms

Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Idealist can reach a wider audience, but remember that your content must focus on your mission and vision rather than specific board roles. This approach will attract candidates interested in contributing to a cause, not simply filling a position. Use your selection criteria during the initial stages to ensure you’re attracting only those aligned with your organization’s goals.

4. Referral Outreach

Referrals are powerful in recruitment. Reach out to individuals in your network, even if they’re not the ideal candidates. They may know someone who would be a perfect fit. Be clear about the skills, experience, and passion you’re seeking—whether it’s fundraising expertise or a background in finance. Often, people are excited to connect nonprofits with individuals who share similar values, making referral outreach an effective method.

5. Professional Associations and Networking Events

Professional associations, such as the Bar Association, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and Lions Club, are valuable networks for finding quality board members. Attend meetings or events hosted by these groups to meet potential candidates who already demonstrate a commitment to service and community. Focus on venues where your ideal candidates are likely to congregate—whether that’s a church for community-minded individuals, an academic setting for educators, or an industry-specific association for fundraisers or marketers.

Tailoring Your Strategy to the Right Audience

The core of effective board recruitment outreach is this: go where the right people are. Whether you’re looking for experienced fundraisers, marketing professionals, or legal advisors, targeting specific associations and environments will increase the likelihood of finding aligned candidates. Tailor your messaging for each type of outreach to capture their interest and bring them into the fold. Once they’re in, you can focus on interviewing, onboarding, and aligning with your mission.

We’ll be back to discuss the next step: the interview process. This includes inviting potential board members and conducting compelling interviews that confirm their suitability for your organization.

At Solutions Matter, LLC, we’re here to support you in finding and recruiting the board members your mission deserves. Reach out if you need guidance or assistance in this process—we’re always happy to help advance your vision.

Rooney Akpesiri is the VP of Acquisition, Nonprofit Solutions Matter