How to Conduct Effective Board Meetings

Board meetings are a time when board members offer valuable input on a company’s progress. Board meetings are also a chance for members to build camaraderie and trust.

For a productive discussion and efficient decisions, a successful board meeting must begin with clear communication of the meeting’s objective(s) prior to the time the board meets. Sending a board package that contains all the information necessary you can find out more about the board software can help you with coordinating productive meeting for discussion is one way to accomplish this.

Some boards utilize Robert’s Rules of Order as a guide for conducting their meetings. However, this book isn’t necessary for every board. In general, the chair is responsible for making sure that invitations are sent out on time and notes are made, and all the necessary materials are given to board members prior the meeting.

One of the biggest errors companies make is to not prepare and distribute their board documents on time. It is important to communicate the purpose of the board meetings to all members prior to the meeting. This will allow directors to prepare for the meeting and to ask questions. This will allow you to keep your meeting as brief as you can and save time for discussion. If you have one of your board members who insists on a lengthy report being included in the agenda, then plan to make it to last at least one hour after any break.