The Imperfect Board Member: Discovering the Seven Disciplines of Governance Excellence by Jim Brown

Have you ever served on a board and not known what your job was? This outstanding and interesting book is a guide to "imperfect board members" (that would be you!) on how an effective board and its members should operate. The book is written in the style of Patrick Lencionis great series of management fables - The 5 Dysfunctions of A Team, etc.

Here are some quotes from Amazon.com:

"Everyone wins with good governance--countries, corporations, and community groups. In a compelling style like no one before him, Jim Brown helps leaders understand the keys for boardroom excellence. The Imperfect Board Member ought to be required reading for people on every type of board. The great thing is that it won't need to be required—it’s such a fun book, every leader will want to read it."—Jim Balsillie, chairman and co-CEO, Research in Motion; chair, Centre for International Governance Innovation

"Jim Brown has delivered a business fable that is as provocative as it is unconventional. Do you know the Secret Formula for Organizational Effectiveness? Are you making the wrong sacrifice? Does the board lead with its nose or its fingers? The Imperfect Board Member presents these concepts in a manner that is both illuminating and engaging."—Scott Green, author, Sarbanes-Oxley and the Board of Directors

"It’s hard to overestimate the difference between an excellent board, a mediocre board, and a failing and complacent board. But all three have this in common: each of their board members is imperfect. What makes the difference? A clear vision of what a board is for, and how a good board functions. Jim Brown’s new book is the best resource I know of to convey that vision. What The Five Dysfunctions of a Team does for staff members this book can do for boards—from charitable organizations to local churches to educational institutions to professional associations."—Brian McLaren, author, A New Kind of Christian and A Generous Orthodoxy

"I’ve consulted with, served on, and even chaired boards in the profit and not-for-profit sectors for over twenty-five years. Most boards are well-intended, but confused at best, about their roles and responsibilities. I’m delighted to recommend The Imperfect Board Member to help board members and leaders to be confidently on-purpose."—Kevin W. McCarthy, author, The On-Purpose Person and The On-Purpose Business

"Jim Brown nails it. With big print, mind-grabbing graphics and a story line in the tradition of Ken Blanchard and Patrick Lencioni books, you'll value the author's seven disciplines in this leadership fable about business boards, nonprofit boards and faith-based boards. Example: "The best boards keep their noses in the business and their fingers out!" Brown warns, "The only way a board can responsibly do its job without meddling is by monitoring very well." Buy a bunch and give a copy to each board member and senior executive on your team." Reader Review

Jim Brown is a founding partner of Strive!—a leadership development firm that specializes in governance. With offices near Toronto and Cleveland, Strive! provides coaching and consulting services to boards and leaders across North America and in various countries around the world. Brown's seasoned wisdom and inspirational support have made him a trusted coach for leaders, and a sought-after speaker. Contact him at www.strive.com.

Check out this great book at http://www.amazon.com/Imperfect-Board-Member-Discovering-Disciplines/dp/0787986100/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217341021&sr=8-1