Running a successful board meeting requires a combination of strategies that maximize results while creating the ideal environment for collaboration. The following guidelines will help you to set a dynamic atmosphere and encourage participation from a variety of perspectives, and reach your desired outcomes.
It is important to clearly define the objectives of Your Meeting
The setting of clear goals helps keep meetings focused and productive. This can lead participants to productive discussions and decision-making processes. The clarity of the meeting’s goals will allow leaders to set the agenda in order, allocate sufficient time for each topic and give them the flexibility to address any unexpected issues or urgent concerns arise during the meeting.
Begin with the most important issues
By addressing the most important issues first, you’ll bring energy to your meeting and put everyone in a more relaxed state of mind to engage in deeper discussion. This is the best way to establish an expectation that your meetings are focused on issues rather than updates.
Distribute All Meeting Materials in Advance
Distributing meetings materials and reports to all Board members prior to the meeting is the best method to ensure they are prepared for the meeting. This will give attendees the opportunity to review the material prior to the meeting and plan their thoughts and opinions. This will also prevent the meeting from becoming off-track or getting bogged down by administrative tasks.
Evaluate Your Meetings
You can record action items during the meeting and then distribute them in a digestible form after the meeting is finished. It is also important to evaluate the board meeting regularly to determine what works and what could be improved.