A well-run board session is one of the best ways to get the support needed to tackle difficult issues and take decisions. The key to successful meetings is to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that they have been given the opportunity to review materials beforehand. This allows for more discussion, and helps boards make informed decisions in the best interests of the company.
Board members are often busy and will likely have many commitments to their schedules. This is why it is crucial to schedule meetings for board members as early as possible and to ensure that all directors have accepted the invitation. It is also a good idea to create an outline of the board’s agenda in order that all directors are able to access the materials prior to the meeting.
On the day of the board meeting the most important task is to control the time spent by the board effectively. This includes making sure that every agenda item is actionable and relevant and that there is enough information on each item. It is also an ideal idea for each item to be allocated the appropriate amount of time, so that the board doesn’t get caught up in discussions that have no value.
It is also a good idea to use an online survey on your board portal to ask for feedback at the end of each meeting, which can help to keep the levels of stress low and keep issues from boiling over. This will also help improve the structure of future board meetings and ensure that the board members are prepared for tough decisions.