A Direct Line Blog

By Robert Harris, CAE (President, Nonprofitcenter.com)

Volunteers accept positions on boards and committees. Without much thought, the lines blur between the roles of board, committee, and staff.

Stay in Your Lane

Roles in an association are distinct. Every effort complements another. When individuals disregard or disrespect their responsibilities, confusion occurs.

Evidence of uncertainty is heard in, “Why is a board member telling staff how to do their jobs?” And “The committee thinks they have authority to speak for the board.”

Clarity comes from knowing in which lane to work. Lanes are defined as narrow passageways. They are meant to guide forward motion.

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