An business owner recently asked me to describe what makes a top board member. The best boards require board members who have a broad network of contacts in the industry as well as a deep understanding of a specific problem or issue, and strong connections to the finance world. While these are all essential but the following qualities are often left out in the search for a good board member – a enthusiasm for the cause, the ability to listen and communicate with humility and a desire to go the extra mile are also crucial to ensure that a board performs in its most efficient manner.

A great nonprofit board member is passionate about the mission of the organization and exhibits that passion through their actions. Whether that means participating in fundraising walks, volunteering at events, or taking steps to lobby city legislators the board member is dedicated to the people they serve. This is a quality that is not taught and can be the difference between success or failure for an organization.

It is essential to possess good judgment when you are on the board. This is particularly important for governance in nonprofits. A board with a poor track record (whether it’s in hiring and firing or M&A transactions), is doing the organization an injustice. Good judgment requires a lot of wisdom, and typically comes from many tough great board member decisions, a few blunders, and a lot of smarts.

The final characteristic that I believe is a requirement for a successful board member is a keen understanding of the importance of collaboration. The most effective board members understand that their success is dependent on their ability to work in a team regardless of whether it’s at the board meeting or at a fundraising event. They make the effort to build coalitions among their fellow board members.