LinkedIn Supports Non-Profits with New Board Connect

If you work with a non-profit organization, get thee to LinkedIn right now. The social networking site has just released a new tool called Board Connect that is all about helping non-profits find new board members.

Meg Garlinhouse, head of employment brand and community for LinkedIn, told Mashable,

“There’s a huge supply and demand issue we’re trying to solve — more than 2 million non-profit board seats need to be filled each year and non-profit leaders are challenged with finding the right individuals to join those boards.”

It’s not at all surprising given that everyone’s days are already filled to overflowing with work, home and community responsibilities. Add to that, the fact that the people running a non-profit are generally handling more tasks than any one person should and it’s a wonder these groups continue to function.

Since LinkedIn is all about networking, it’s the perfect place to find professionals willing to donate their time and brain-space to a good cause. Board Connect helps in three ways. It begins with an educational webcast designed to get board member seekers on the fast track to making contact. Next, you’re invited into the Board Connect private group where you can get advice and a shoulder to cry on from others in the same boat.

The biggest boost comes from access to LinkedIn’s Talent Finder free of charge. (A $1,000 value.) Using Talent Finder, non-profits can find potential recruits by specifying the location and skills needed to fill out a board.

If you’re not currently working with a non-profit, consider tossing your hat into the ring. Volunteering is good for the soul and it’s an excellent way to pay back the community that has supported you and your business. It’s also an excellent way to network and pick up new skills that you can use in your own work.

Take the first step, fill in the Volunteer Experience & Causes section of your LinkedIn profile then answer the call when a non-profit asks you to lend a hand.