Power Shifts in a Nonprofit Organization

While we all know that nothing ever stays the same, we do have a tendency to expect our institutions'"our workplaces, churches, schools and nonprofit organizations to have some predictable stability. The truth is that little changes can bring about big power shifts in a nonprofit agency or organization. A reorganization of the executive staff (or the hiring of new staff) or changes on the board of directors can trigger shifts in who has and holds the power.

Of course, power shifts do not have to be a warning signal and shifts in who has and who uses the power can actually be a positive change'"especially when it brings about much needed changes or moves the organization in a progressive direction. Additionally, power dynamics can be influenced by all sorts of factors: personalities, privilege, wealth and finances, and length of time with the organization are just a few that can come into play. Changes in the executive staff or the addition or subtraction of board members are some of the most common catalysts for power shifts. It may be difficult to even predict how the power dynamic will change when a board member or two leaves or there is a change in executive leadership. This is one of the reasons that having strong by-laws and good structural policy are important'"it can help ease the shock when personnel changes and keep the organization on a somewhat even keel.

Providing for some checks and balances, as well as very clear job descriptions and policy, can be good ways of allowing for change and power shifts, while hopefully keeping things from changing too drastically. Keep in mind, that power is constantly shifting in a nonprofit'"from the board to the executive staff to volunteers, other staff, etc. One of the reasons people choose to work for nonprofit agencies and organizations is that there is often NOT the traditional corporate power structure. It is important, however, to watch out for drastic changes, power-hungry personalities or a lack of accountability that can all cause dysfunctional shifts in the power distribution.