Board meetings are where important decisions are made regarding the direction, policies and operations of a company. They provide a means for board members to be updated about all aspects of the business and make sure that the company is on the right track to meet its goals.
Prior to any decision-making or deliberation, it is critical to go through any relevant reports and updates from committees and departments. This includes financial reports and project updates feedback surveys from customers and other pertinent information that could affect a Board decision.
All board members should receive the report well in advance of the meeting to ensure that any questions or concerns can be addressed in a timely manner before the board’s full meeting. This is especially beneficial for committee chairs who are present in order to help to speed up the board meeting.
Distractions caused by discussions topics during a board meeting can be a massive time consuming and distracts board members from the most important agenda items. Many boards have parking lots on their agendas to allow them to push off-agenda items to be considered later.
A dynamic and thorough agenda, and a commitment to adhere to it consistently shows that the opinions of committee and board members are respected. By creating an effective agenda, you can help the meeting begin and end in time. The attendees will also enjoy a a positive experience of the Board meeting.