A board meeting is an important opportunity to anchor discuss the most important company issues with a diversified group of experts. They offer diverse perspectives, which is vital when deciding on a broad-based strategy and defining the method by that teams develop those strategies.
The effectiveness of a gathering is dependent on the manner in which the leadership keeps discussions on topic and directs the participants. Whatever how stimulating or thorough the agenda is, if discussions go off-topic and the time limit is exceeded, the meeting are not effective. In addition, if essential documents aren’t handed out to attendees in advance of the meeting, it could be difficult for participants to prepare and participate.
To maximize the value of board meetings, start every meeting with a 10 minute recap that repeats key points of previous pre-meetings and the board’s agenda. This will help to clear the mind of board members and keep them focused on the discussion at hand.
Being distracted by new topics of discussion could eat up valuable meeting time, and can distract board members from the more important agenda items. Include a parking lot topic on the agenda to allow for random topics of discussion which may require further investigation however they are not considered to be a top priority.
After the agenda has been set it’s crucial to hear reports from the executive director and any standing or committee reports. It is also possible to have someone review the financial reports if you need to discuss them further. After the discussion is finished the chair should open up the room for a vote on each item. Before a vote can be called, a motion should be “seconded”.
