Nonprofit boards bring together passionate people with diverse ideas and personalities. This diversity can be powerful—but also challenging. Disagreements over vision, communication styles, or decision-making can sometimes lead to serious conflicts that hold the organization back.
But there’s good news: with the right tools and strategies, nonprofit boards can manage these differences and even turn them into strengths. For organizations seeking structured support, JAMS Pathways offers customized conflict resolution strategies tailored to nonprofits and mission-driven teams.
Common Conflict Areas on Nonprofit Boards
-
Different Visions:
Even if board members care about the same mission, they might disagree on how to get there. These differences can lead to gridlock.
-
Clashing Personalities:
Varied communication styles or work habits can lead to tension, even when members agree on goals.
-
Unclear Roles:
Confusion over who does what can spark power struggles and disagreements.
-
Fights Over Resources:
Disputes about money, priorities, or time often reflect deeper divisions and can hurt morale and progress.
Facilitation Tools That Help Resolve Conflict
Facilitation tools help guide discussions so they stay productive, respectful, and focused on solutions. Here are a few effective approaches:
Before the Meeting
-
Clear Agendas: Share the meeting agenda ahead of time so everyone can come prepared.
-
Background Materials: Send out relevant info in advance.
-
Optional Icebreakers: Start with a quick activity to ease tension and build connection.
During the Meeting
-
Round-Robin Sharing: Let each person speak in turn to ensure all voices are heard.
-
Paraphrasing: Repeat what others say to confirm understanding.
-
Body Language Awareness: Encourage respectful and open nonverbal communication.
Making Decisions
De-Escalating Tension
Creative Problem-Solving
Long-Term Ways to Strengthen the Board
-
Clarify Roles: Make sure everyone understands their responsibilities.
-
Align on Values: Revisit the organization’s core mission and principles regularly.
-
Build the Team: Set aside time for team-building activities.
-
Keep Communication Open: Encourage transparency with stakeholders and within the board.
-
Hold Regular Reviews: Check in on how the board is doing and where improvements can be made.
-
Celebrate Wins: Recognize progress and achievements together.
Invest in Conflict Resolution Training
For board members to resolve disagreements effectively, it helps to have formal training. Conflict Resolution 101 from JAMS Pathways teaches key techniques in a practical, interactive way. You can also explore their workplace training programs designed to build leadership, communication, and facilitation skills.
If internal efforts don’t resolve ongoing issues, bringing in a neutral expert can create lasting change. JAMS Pathways offers access to trained facilitators who provide professional conflict resolution services, helping nonprofits reset their dynamic and move forward.
Real-World Results
To see how other mission-driven organizations have successfully managed conflict, visit the Success Stories page and explore examples of transformation and teamwork in action.
For additional tools and guides, check out the JAMS Pathways Resources section, full of practical downloads and expert insights.
Conclusion
Disagreements on a nonprofit board are natural—but they don’t have to stop progress. In fact, when managed well, conflict can spark creativity and lead to better decisions. By using facilitation tools and investing in conflict resolution, your board can build trust, collaborate more effectively, and move your mission forward.
Disclaimer:
This page is for general information purposes. JAMS makes no representations or warranties regarding its accuracy or completeness. Interested persons should conduct their own research regarding information on this website before deciding to use JAMS, including investigation and research of JAMS neutrals.
