Board meetings form the core of a company’s management. But, they must be organized to facilitate productive discussions and decision-making. A successful board meeting depends on clear and consistent procedures. It also relies on ensuring that all voices are heard and that the agenda is adhered to. This article will show you how to arrange your board meetings for maximum effectiveness.
Start by discussing the ground rules. This could include discussing the process of how to take part in discussions, how long they will last, or the manner in which decisions will be made. This can help avoid miscommunications and ensures a more productive work environment.
Begin by introducing the facilitator or chair. This sets the stage for the rest of the board meeting and sets the stage for productive and meaningful discussions.
Review the reports of the different committees or heads of departments. This is an opportunity for departments or groups of members to share their latest reports and discuss any successes or challenges.
Review any old or unresolved issues from previous meetings. This could include pending actions, projects or initiatives that haven’t been approved, or any other agenda items requiring discussion and board decision.
Discussions can divert attention from the main agenda and can lead to discussions running over time. This can be prevented by putting a parking item at the end of the agenda, where new items are discussed but do not require immediate action. It is also helpful to have a time limit for each agenda item. This will keep the discussion on track and keep it from getting off topic.
