Being homogenized may be good for milk, but is it good your board?

It is time to take a good look at our assumptions. We think our hearts are open, but in fact, we may be more tribal that we realize, and that is a detriment to our mission.

Let’s start with our boards. Are they diverse? Is there diversity in gender, age, experience, race, and ethnicity? If not, take a look at how you recruit new board members. Do your current board members suggest people from their circle of acquaintances? Are they all too often very similar in gender, age, race and experience?

Then be purposeful in expanding your horizons. Seek diversity. You may be surprised by the insight, wisdom, ideas, and influence your organization gains. You will find solutions you hadn’t imagined, problems you hadn’t recognized, and resources previously untapped.

We are coming to know better. Let us begin to do better. Our mission will benefit, and isn’t that why we’re here?