A board meeting can be productive and enthralling. However, running an effective board meeting isn’t a simple task. Board members’ time is valuable, and it’s the job as chairperson to steer discussion in the proper direction and make sure that everyone is engaged throughout the entire meeting. If you go off course, it can https://urbanboardroom.com/ cost you dearly particularly when decisions made by the board affect the rest of your organization.
Send board members an agenda for the meeting in advance. Be sure to outline why each item is being discussed: is it meant to inform, gather information, or reach a decision? Understanding the purpose of each issue will help you manage your time better and avoid getting distracted.
Take care to address any old business items which require a vote and are ready to be ratified prior to moving on to new business items. Be cautious not to let these items eat up the majority of your time at meetings; you’ll want to give every issue the time it deserves. If you’re concerned that your board needs to spend too much time discussing past business, consider adding it to the agenda for your next meeting or asking for a future report to be presented at the next meeting.
Encourage participation by allowing your participants to raise their hands when it’s their turn to speak. This will help the chair recognize everyone and keeps discussions on track. Request everyone to turn off their microphones when they are not talking. This will help to keep away distractions like children or pets. Schedule your online meetings away from regular meal times so that no one eats on cameras.