According to the Community Association Institute, they list the following attributes of a Good Board Member, followed by what makes an inappropriate board member.

A strong Board Member has:

• Good Character
• Strong integrity
• Calm judgement
• Willingness to serve
• Committed to the best interests of the Community as a whole
• Relevant experience or background
• Previous volunteer Experience
• Strong "People skills"

An inappropriate Board member:

• Is unable to put the welfare of the Community First
• Works behind the board to run things his or her way
• Is impulsive or quick tempered
• Has a personal or hidden agenda
• Puts individuals interests first
• Has little or no experience in management, leadership or service
• Is unable to work with others for the common good
• Has poor interpersonal skills