How to Apply to be a Board Member: A Step-by-Step Guide

When you apply to be a board member, you’re making both a strategic and meaningful career move that can expand your professional influence and impact. However, the process is often less familiar than traditional job applications, leaving many aspiring board members wondering: Where do I start?

This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to apply for a board member position, including crafting a compelling cover letter, highlighting relevant experiences, and positioning yourself as a strong candidate in front of a hiring manager or nomination committee.

Why Apply to Be a Board Member on a Nonprofit Board?

Before diving into the how, let’s briefly explore the why. Serving on a board allows you to:

• Use your skills to drive social impact
• Expand your professional network
• Strengthen your leadership and governance experience
• Gain insight into nonprofit operations and strategy
• Fulfill personal values through service

Most nonprofits seek board members with a clear passion for their mission, combined with a professional track record in areas such as finance, law, marketing, fundraising, technology, or governance.

Step 1: Understand the Role of a Board Member

Before applying, ensure you understand what being a board member entails. A typical board member:

• Attends board meetings regularly (monthly or quarterly)
• Reviews financials and approves budgets
• Participants in strategic planning and oversight
• Serves on committees (e.g. governance, finance, fundraising)
• Acts as an ambassador for the organization
• Makes a personal financial contribution (in many cases)
• Assists in securing other donations or sponsorships

Tip: Review the organization’s bylaws or board member job description (if available) to understand the time commitment, term limits, and core responsibilities.

Step 2: Identify the Right Opportunity

Not every board is the right fit. Consider:

• Mission alignment: Do you believe deeply in the organization’s purpose?
• Skills match: Are your professional strengths aligned with the board’s needs?
• Commitment: Do you have the time and energy to fulfill your responsibilities?

You can find board opportunities through:

• Board matching platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, BoardnetUSA, VolunteerMatch)
• Local nonprofit resource centers or associates
• Networking with current or former board members
• Direct outreach to organizations of interest

Step 3: Research the Organization

Thoroughly researching the organization helps tailor your application and demonstrate your genuine interest. Key areas to explore:

• Mission and values
• Strategic goals and current challenges
• Board structure and current members
• Recent press releases, annual reports, or impact statements

Best Practice: Reach out to a current or former board member to ask about their experience. This shows initiative and provides insight into board culture and dynamics.

Step 4: Assess Your Fit

Ask yourself:

• Do your skills align with the board’s needs (e.g., finance, law, marketing, governance)?
• Can you commit time and resources?
• Are you passionate about the mission?

Boards often seek diversity in background, expertise, and perspective. Be clear about what unique qualities you bring.

Step 5: Tailor Your Board Application Materials

This is where the process differs from a traditional job search. While a resume is still helpful, your cover letter (or application letter) is the most important component.

What to Include in a Board Application Cover Letter

A well-crafted cover letter should:

• Be addressed to the board chair or hiring manager
• Begin with an engaging opening paragraph that expresses your interest and connection to the mission
• Outline your relevant experiences and strengths
• Demonstrate your understanding of board governance and responsibilities
• Provide specific examples of past contributions (especially leadership, fundraising, or strategy)
• Include a clear call to action (e.g., request a meeting or express readiness to discuss further)

Step 6: Highlight a Strong Track Record

The hiring manager or nominating committee wants to know: What will you bring to the boardroom?

Make sure your materials emphasize:

• Leadership roles in professional or volunteer settings
• Budget or financial oversight experience
• Fundraising or donor cultivation success
• Community involvement and networks
• Strategic planning or project execution examples

Pro Tip: Include quantifiable impact where possible. For example, “helped raise $100K through peer-to-peer fundraising” or “led a governance committee through a successful bylaw revision.”

Step 7: Prepare for the Interview Process

If your application is well-received, the next step is often a conversation with the executive director, board chair, or a committee chair.

Common Interview Questions

• What draws you to our mission?
• What experience do you have with nonprofit boards or governance?
• How do you handle conflict or disagreement in a group setting?
• What committees or areas of expertise could you contribute to?
• Are you comfortable making a personal financial contribute?

Tip: Come prepared with thoughtful questions of your own about strategic goals, board culture, fundraising expectations, or challenges the organization is facing.

Step 8: Follow Up with a Thank You Letter

Always send a thank-you email or letter after your interview. Reiterate your enthusiasm and appreciation for the conversation. This reinforces your professionalism and commitment.

Step 9: The Nomination and Election Process

If the organization wants to move forward with your candidacy, the board may:

• Conduct a formal vote during a board meeting
• Complete background or reference checks
• Invite you to attend a meeting as an observer
• Ask you to sign a board member agreement or conflict of interest disclosure

Once elected, you’ll likely go through a new board member orientation to get up to speed on policies, finances, committees, and the strategic plan.

Best Practices for a Standout Board Application

Customize Every Cover Letter

Avoid generic letters. Tailor each application to the specific organization.

Use Active, Confident Language

Position yourself as a leader and collaborator, not just a passive supporter.

Keep it Professional, Yet Personal

Let your passion shine through, while demonstrating competence and credibility.

Demonstrate Long-Term Commitment

Boards are looking for engaged, dependable members. Signal that you’re in it for the long haul.

Offer Value, Not Just Interest

Organizations want contributors who bring ideas, resources, and energy (not just enthusiasm).

Final Thoughts

Applying for a board member position is not just about showcasing your accomplishments; it’s about aligning your values and experise with a mission that matters. By following these steps and thoughtfully presenting your experience, you can stand out as a committed and capable candidate.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a first-time applicant, your voice and perspective can be a powerful asset to a board.