Use this checklist to plan an orientation with a new board member. Name an owner for each task and agree on dates. Adapt it to your governing documents and the member's role.
Before the first meeting
- Confirm the appointment and term using your governing documents.
- Share the mission, current strategic priorities, and board calendar.
- Provide governing documents, current policies, and a clear board role description.
- Arrange secure access to board materials and explain confidentiality expectations.
During orientation
- Introduce the board chair, executive director, and a board buddy.
- Walk through the budget and recent financial reports with the designated finance lead.
- Explain how agendas, minutes, votes, and committee work are handled.
- Review conflicts of interest, recusal, and where disclosures should be submitted privately.
- Ask about accessibility needs and how the member prefers to receive materials.
After the first meeting
- Confirm any required acknowledgments or disclosures are complete without circulating private contents.
- Discuss committee interests and agree on the member's next contribution.
- Schedule a check-in to answer questions and improve the orientation process.