What are you doing to improve engagement?
For any organisation—whether it’s a charity, school, or other—trustee engagement is vital. When trustees are active, engaged, and committed, they bring fresh ideas and points of view, informed decision-making, and strong governance. But keeping trustees engaged isn’t always easy. Everyone is so busy, and volunteer roles can sometimes slip down the priority list.
If you’re struggling to keep your trustees engaged, here are some of my best tip to encourage active involvement and commitment.
Set Clear Expectations from day 1
Provide new trustees with an induction pack that includes their duties, key organisational documents, and an up to date meeting schedule, as a minimum.
Trustee engagement begins with clear communication from the very start. Ensure that trustees understand their role, responsibilities, and the time commitment involved. Outline what’s expected in terms of attendance, participation, and preparation (like reviewing board papers). When trustees know exactly what’s required, they are more likely to stay involved and deliver on those expectations.
Adopt a Collaborative Culture
Create opportunities for trustees to work together on sub-committees or special projects. Teamwork builds relationships and engagement.
A board that works well together is more likely to stay engaged. Encourage open communication and teamwork. Trustees should feel that their input is valued and that they can express their ideas. This helps build a sense of ownership and commitment to overall success.
Focus on Personal Connection to the Mission
Invite trustees to visit projects or events, so they can see the positive outcomes of their work.
Trustees are more likely to be engaged when they feel a strong personal connection to the organisation they support. Keep your trustees informed about the impact of their work. Share success stories, testimonials from beneficiaries, and tangible outcomes. This helps trustees see the difference they’re making and provides motivation to stay committed.
Provide Continuous Learning and Development Opportunities
An annual skills audit is a must and will help to identify skills and knowledge gaps. This can be used to provide targeted training opportunities.
Trustees come from various backgrounds, and not everyone will have skills and knowledge in all areas of governance, finance, or strategy. Offering opportunities for development will increase engagement as well as improve the board’s overall effectiveness. Workshops, webinars, or governance training can enhance skills and confidence, leading to more active participation. There are plenty of free online resources.
Keep Meetings Efficient and Meaningful
Rotate chairing of meetings or give different trustees the lead on agenda items. This helps to boost participation.
Nothing disengages a trustee faster than long, inefficient, or even irrelevant board meetings. Ensure that yours are well-organised with a clear agenda that focuses on the important strategic issues. Make sure there are clear time allocations for topics. Trustees should have all relevant information in advance, so they can come prepared to contribute. Keep discussions focused, and ensure that every trustee has the opportunity to share their thoughts.
Recognise and Celebrate Contributions
Hold an annual trustee recognition event as a way to show your gratitude for time and dedication given.
Trustees are volunteers, and recognising them can go a long way in keeping them engaged. Acknowledge contributions, both big and small. Public recognition at board meetings, in newsletters, or even a simple “thank you” email can reinforce how much their efforts are valued. When trustees feel appreciated, they’re more likely to stay motivated and involved.
Improve Accountability
Implement a self-assessment process for trustees to reflect on their contributions and identify areas for improvement.
An engaged board is one where trustees hold themselves and each other accountable. Set clear performance goals for the board, and regularly review progress toward those goals. Encourage a culture where trustees understand how much participation matters and that they have a responsibility to be part of that.
Build Relationships Outside of Meetings
Planning a get together outside of the regular meeting schedule can help with team bonding.
It’s easier to stay engaged when trustees feel like they’re part of a community, not just showing up for formal board meetings. Create opportunities for trustees to build relationships outside the boardroom—whether through informal gatherings, or social events. This can help trustees feel more connected to each other and the organisation.
Provide Opportunities for Impactful Engagement
Ask trustees individually how they would like to contribute to the organisation based on their strengths and interests, then tailor roles accordingly.
Trustees want to feel like they’re making a real impact. Beyond attending meetings, offer opportunities for trustees to get involved in areas where they can use their skills and expertise. Whether it’s leading a new initiative, mentoring, or representing at external events. This type of engagement will keep trustees motivated and connected.
Regularly Review Trustee Engagement
Use anonymous trustee surveys to gather honest feedback and identify areas where engagement can be improved.
Regularly review trustee engagement levels. Are all trustees actively participating? Are there barriers that might be preventing them from doing so? Holding reviews and check-ins with individual trustees can help identify issues early and provide an opportunity to address concerns.
Trustee engagement is crucial for the success and sustainability of any organisation. By setting clear expectations, encouraging collaboration, providing training and development opportunities, and celebrating contributions, you can create a board environment where trustees feel motivated and committed to the organisation’s mission. Engaged trustees lead to stronger governance, better decision-making, and a brighter future for the all.
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