5 Practical Tips For Nonprofit Leaders From Author David Rhode

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This month, Brooklyn Org hosted a Nonprofit Leader Salon for Executive Directors of 30 local nonprofits, featuring a fireside chat with nonprofit consultant and author David Rhode in conversation with our President & CEO Dr. Jocelynne Rainey.

Rhode shared actionable strategies for navigating the challenges of nonprofit leadership as presented in his latest book, Passion Isn’t Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders.

A comprehensive guide to nonprofit leadership, Rhode’s book addresses strategic planning, board development, financial controls, branding, crisis communication, and AI integration, among other topics. Over the course of the conversation, he explained that the book serves as both a practical framework and a resource for asking the right questions.

Rhode emphasized that effective leadership isn’t about mastering every skill but understanding the landscape to address challenges effectively: “Being an executive director is not about being perfect. It’s about navigating challenges with optimism and creative problem-solving.”

Dr. Rainey added, “It’s about being ready to pivot and staying focused on the work that truly elevates our mission.” 

Here are some practical tips for nonprofit leaders that stood out from the conversation:

1. Leadership Mindset: Optimism and self-belief are critical for inspiring teams.

   “Your team feeds off your energy. If you’re confident, they’ll believe challenges are surmountable,” Rhode shared.

2. Board Management: Differentiate between working boards and advisory boards to maximize each group’s contributions.

   Rhode offered, “[Term limits for board members can] ensure fresh perspectives while allowing strong contributors to stay engaged through reappointments.

3. Time Management: Align leadership focus with strategic goals.

   Rhode advised leaders to “Protect time for tasks that advance your mission and delegate where possible.”

4. AI in Nonprofit Work: Use AI and do it thoughtfully.

   Rhode mentioned, “AI can simplify tasks like drafting emails or donor letters, making the workplace more efficient when used properly and with appropriate oversight.” Rainey shared of her own experience with AI, adding that “I’m protective of my voice, but using AI for edits or drafts has saved me so much time.”

5. Relationship Building is Key: Start by listening when exploring a partnership with another organization.

   Rhode noted that “partnerships are about creating mutual value, not just asking for resources.” A story from illustrated how a casual coffee meeting grew into a lasting collaboration that led to impactful community events, demonstrating the broader principle of relationship-building as central to nonprofit work: authentic connections foster trust and open doors for meaningful partnerships that extend beyond transactions. As Rhode explained, “When you prioritize listening and understanding, you create partnerships that last.”

The conversation between Dr. Rainey and Rhode ultimately underscored a central truth: nonprofit leaders thrive not just on passion, but on the strength of their networks and the support they receive. At Brooklyn Org, we know that supporting our nonprofit partners goes beyond a grant payment — and we continually strive to offer nonprofits robust opportunities to strengthen their organizations.

Convenings like this Nonprofit Leader Salon are vital for fostering connections by creating spaces where leaders can share ideas, reflect on challenges, and build strategies together to advance meaningful change across Brooklyn.