Management should count floats and petty cash periodically, as spot-checks on accuracy.

Your corporate minutes book should contain essential documents including your incorporation documents, by-laws and board minutes. Keep this in an accessible place for reference and make sure it’s up to date.

An organization’s operating success depends on staff understanding their jobs, and possessing the skills and knowledge needed to execute tasks efficiently and effectively. Cultivate a good balance between in-house training/skills sharing, and professional development activities.

Studies have shown that a strong professional development program contributes to employee morale and improves both job satisfaction and motivation. Appropriate investment in training serves the needs of both employers and employees.

Training costs your organization in both time and registration fees. On the other hand, well-trained staff tend to be more productive, innovative and effective. Consider your spending on staff development as an essential  investment in your organization’s success.

Consider your training resources. Training from within is a great way to ensure that all staff follow the same set of policies and procedures – but it may be more effective to purchase outside training for things like software and management techniques.

Recruiting great board members depends on understanding your mission and communicating it clearly — as well as taking a careful inventory of the skills and personal qualities your organization requires, and investing time in cultivating suitable candidates. Check out this great board recruitment workbook from the Muttart Foundation.

Many corporations are keen to have their staff volunteer in the community; a good opportunity to strengthen a relationship with a corporate/community partner is to solicit staff time at the Board and committee level.

The position of Treasurer can be a tough one to fill. If you know this position is changing over, seek referrals early! Try recruiting from outside your current circle by advertising online, using referral agencies such as a volunteer centre, and networking with other not-for-profits.

Planning summer vacations with your staff? Each province has an Employment Standards Act that sets out minimums for this and other payroll and HR issues. Check your provincial website to make sure you know your rights and responsibilities.