The development of this book is the culmination of hundreds of executive transitions. The Art of Hiring Leaders describes a step-by-step search process so that boards and search committees can make knowledgeable and informed decisions throughout the executive transition process.

SOME OF THE BOOK’S BENEFITS

1. Practical information for completing a successful search and avoiding costly mistakes.
2. Ways to see this transition as an opportunity for the organization and the board.
3. A “snapshot” of how nonprofits grow and develop and how that affects leadership needs and the board.
4. Developing a new view of the organization’s goals and the role of the executive director.
5. A brief and practical overview of leadership and how to identify those abilities.
6. Suggestions for strengthening the organization through the executive transition process.
7. Professional development ideas for the board as it leads through the transition process.
8. Tips on communicating effectively throughout the process.
9. Pointers on including the community in the process.
10. Advice on creating an effective and inclusive search committee.
11. Being clear at the start of the transition about the decision-making process.
12. How to have effective interviews.
13. Information on conducting thorough references and background checks.
14. Creating the most effective plan to bring the new executive director into the organization and the community.

My hope is that this book demystifies the search process and provides useful knowledge so that nonprofit boards can make informed decisions that help their organizations thrive.

Your comments and suggestions will be useful in planning the second edition.

Please let me know how you heard about the book.

Barbara J. Gilvar