Continuing last week’s Museum 411 exploration of strategic board recruiting for museums, let’s examine some thoughtful questions you can ask potential board candidates prior to nomination (arranged by topic area). Use these questions during one-on-one conversations and/or correspondence before nomination. Tweak them to address specifics about your museum and its particulars.
As with any interview, listen for enthusiasm and clarity about commitment. And for board roles especially, you want to observe a willingness to engage beyond meetings.
Mission & values alignment
What draws you to our museum’s mission?
Can you share an example of how you’ve supported arts, culture, history, education, or community causes in the past?
How do you see a museum’s role in its community?
How do you think our museum could strengthen its connection to the community or underserved audiences?
Skills
What perspectives, skills, or lived experiences do you feel would add value to our board?
Have you served on a nonprofit board before? What did you learn from that experience?
Our museum is focusing on ________ [expanding STEM programming, improving DEAI practices, growing collections, etc.]. Do you have experience in these areas?
Time Commitment
Our board meets ________ [monthly/quarterly/etc.], and members often participate in committee work and events. Given your current schedule, do you foresee any challenges in participating fully?
Are you willing to engage in fundraising efforts, such as connecting us with potential supporters or making introductions?
What support or flexibility would help you be most effective in this role?
Connections
What networks or community groups are you connected with that could help the museum expand its reach?
Broader follow-up: Are there community networks, affinity groups, or professional circles where you see an opportunity to amplify the museum’s work?
How do you see yourself advocating for the museum in your personal or professional circles?
Fundraising
What are your thoughts on board members’ roles in fundraising?
Are you comfortable participating in fundraising activities, such as thanking donors, hosting events, and/or sharing your story about why you support the museum?
Have you had experience in stewarding donors or supporters (formally or informally)?
Perspective & vision
What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges facing museums today?
What would a successful term on the board look like for you?
Is there a particular project, goal, or issue you would be excited to help the museum address?
Personal commitment
Board members are expected to make a personally meaningful contribution. What does that look like for you?
Curiosity
Do you have any concerns about joining the board that we can address now?
Do you have any questions for us about how the board works or how members are supported?
Related: A quick Museum 411 survey question for our readers:
