by Tom Okarma | Oct 25, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning
With a tip of the hat to a certain late night TV talk-show host, I have been thinking about what makes a board “good” or “bad” and have come up with a top twenty list that covers a lot of ground. I originally titled this article “Top Five”…then Top Ten…but had to go...
by Tom Okarma | Aug 2, 2011 | Blog, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning
I recently agreed to serve as co-chair of our nonprofit’s search committee to replace the current president and founder. He will be retiring with the next year or so. He has a wealth of information, wisdom, relationships, and passion. Needless to say, replacing...
by Tom Okarma | Jun 13, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Governance, Leadership
It seems obvious to me that if you reward desirable behavior you will get more of it and if you don’t, performance will eventually level off and fewer people may go that proverbial “extra mile”. Complacency and an entitlement mentality can work its...
by Tom Okarma | Mar 29, 2011 | Blog, Governance, Leadership
I just read an article in the Chicago Tribune about a recently elected politician who has requested and received $200,000 from several large nonprofit foundations to fund transition costs as he prepares to take office. I have to admit I was a bit surprised to hear...
by Tom Okarma | Mar 8, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning
Smart leaders are always looking for ways to manage their expenses better, increase revenue, or work smarter, especially during these days of uncertainty. In this environment, looking for ways to do things better has to be job one! One overlooked tool that can...
by Tom Okarma | Jan 30, 2011 | Blog, Board Development, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning
In a previous work life I had the privilege of getting to know and learn from a world class consultant-Dr. Ram Charan. His specialty is leadership and strategy and he consults with many of the most recognized companies in the United States. He has written many books...
