Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Trustee

Becoming a trustee can be one of the most rewarding roles you take on, offering a chance to shape the direction of a charity, champion a cause you care about and develop new skills in the process. But it also comes with responsibility, commitment and the need for careful consideration before stepping in. 

Several members of the Cause4 team also serve as trustees, and in this blog, they share the insights and lessons they wish they’d known before stepping into the role. 

Board culture means more than you think

“Do some due diligence on the culture of the Board. Observe a Board meeting before you join to see how things are run and whether there is good evidence of collective decision making and also whether it’s a team you would enjoy being a part of.”

Michelle Wright, Governor at the Guildhall School

Board culture can make or break your trustee experience. You’ll be expected to dedicate time, energy and strategic thinking, often outside of standard meetings, and doing that in a positive, supportive environment is key. Ask about culture in your interview. Sit in on a meeting. Get a feel for how the team communicates and collaborates. 

Know what you’re committing to 

“Becoming a Trustee can take up considerable time and energy, where you will be expected to commit to an organisation’s vision and mission and work alongside peers to make vital strategic decisions.”

Annie Jarvis, Director of PHACE CIC

It’s easy to underestimate the time involved in trusteeship. Some roles may only require attending quarterly meetings, but others include committee work, events, or regular support between meetings.

“It is crucial to understand what time you can commit and exactly what you’ll be expected to contribute, setting the parameters out at the very beginning to ensure full transparency.”

Annie Jarvis, Director of PHACE CIC

Before joining, clarify expectations. What’s the board’s rhythm? How much is expected outside of meetings? What support is available?

Choose a cause you truly care about

“Choose a charity you personally align with and are interested in; it will allow your passion to shine through.”

Ben Wilson, Trustee of the Philanthropy Foundation

Trusteeship is more than turning up to meetings. You’ll be contributing your time, skills and voice to steer an organisation forward. The stronger your personal connection to the mission, the more meaningful (and sustainable) your involvement will be.

Be an active, visible supporter

“Build a bond with staff. That will help give you credibility with them and ensure that discussions in trustee meetings are rooted in a clear understanding of the issues at play.”

Will Harriss, School Governor

Trustees aren’t just figureheads. If you’re a trustee, for fundraising, marketing, or a specific programme, take the time to understand that area, show interest and build relationships. It helps keep governance grounded in reality and boosts your ability to advocate meaningfully for staff and beneficiaries.

Understand the finances

“Fully understanding the financial position of the charity prior to joining the Board is critical to knowing what you’re getting yourself into.” 

Annie Jarvis, Director of PHACE CIC

The Charity Commission website can offer a wealth of publicly available information, but don’t be afraid to ask for more up-to-date accounts directly from the charity. Red flags might include low reserves, high-risk income dependency, or signs of financial instability. You don’t need to be a finance expert, but you do need to know what you’re signing up for.

Expect to be challenged, and grow

“Trusteeship is about bringing your expertise and insight but also about learning and developing to best support the organisation. A vital part of sustaining a charity is seeing yourself as a custodian, not an owner.”

Thomas Williams, Trustee of Cambridge Acorn Project

The best boards aren’t afraid of healthy debate. As a trustee, your role is to scrutinise, challenge, and support, all in service of the charity’s mission. That takes confidence, humility, and a willingness to grow.

Final thoughts

Becoming a trustee is a powerful way to support a cause you care about, but it’s not a role to take lightly. From board dynamics and financial clarity to personal alignment and time commitment, asking the right questions up front can make all the difference.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our Trustee Leadership Programme to build the skills and confidence you need to thrive in the role.