They promote dialog and thinking, have a diverse membership, know about partnering and leadership, and are self-aware. By Stephanie Schwenn Sebring 
Catalytic questions encourage dynamic dialog and critical thinking, and better thinking leads to a higher-performing organization, says Cathy Trower, Ph.D., president of Trower & Trower, Inc., Weare, N.H., and author of The Practitioner’s Guide to Governance as Leadership: Building High Performing Nonprofit Boards. Outstanding dialog and thinking are important, Trower says, because the CU industry is primed for disruption. “So much is changing, and financial institutions are facing new challenges daily. Boards must be ready to face an ever-shifting, complex environment,” including not only the financial services and fintech marketplaces, but also the credit union’s own internal culture. According to Trower, the good thinking done by the highest performing boards comes in part from having members with diverse views. “Today’s board is about partnering and leadership,” she says. “It’s debating the tough stuff (not the details). And it is not rubber-stamping management’s decisions. The ultimate board is a high-performance team of inspiring, inquisitive, and knowledgeable leaders. “It can be difficult for some successful people to set aside their egos; it’s natural for people to become vested in their own views,” Trower continues. “But a board focused on leadership will do a better job of incorporating all stakeholder views.” Additionally, having diverse views in the boardroom means there’s no rush to consensus; instead, vigorous debate and counter-arguments are ensured. Great leaders are also good listeners, Trower notes. They play well together as a team and embrace contrary forces. “So much happens with board dynamics,” reiterates Trower. “Successful leaders must have self-awareness and be cognizant of their impact on other board and staff members sitting around the table.” Stephanie Schwenn Sebring established and managed the marketing departments for three CUs and served in mentorship roles before launching her business. As owner of Fab Prose & Professional Writing, she assists CUs, industry suppliers, and any company wanting great content and a clear brand voice. Follow her on Twitter @fabprose. Sandra McDowell, CEC, PCC, will present “Mindful Leadership” at CUES’ Execu/Net, Aug. 28-31 in Fish Camp, Calif.
