If they are done properly Board meetings are an excellent opportunity to utilize the collective intelligence of Important People to address key issues that affect your business and make important decisions. They can shape the direction your organisation takes by steering it through rough waters and eventually more tranquil waters. It is essential that you ensure every meeting delivers value by making choices on the most appropriate topics, getting all of your members engaged and making the most of their time.
To start the meeting, your chair should begin by confirming that a quorum exists. This can be accomplished by asking all attendees to raise their hands or using the roll call. The chair should summarize all the major points of discussion and provide a brief summary of the meeting’s focus. The chair should also clarify that any new items added to the agenda are given sufficient time for discussion before deciding on them.
Before beginning any discussion or making a decision, it is vital to review all relevant information and reports. Financial statements and progress reports for projects or browse around effective board meetings initiatives, and survey results from customers are all included. This information must be compiled and emailed to each board member prior to the date of the board meeting so they can digest the information before the discussion.
It is important that your board members be open and honest in their discussions. This can be accomplished by fostering a culture of trust, allowing those who are quiet to speak up, and encouraging them to confront prevailing views in a respectful and respectful manner. Your meetings should be well-structured with regular breaks, refreshments and other activities to keep everyone focused and energised.