How to Conduct Effective Virtual Board Meetings

A virtual board meeting that’s effective depends on the use of technology as well as good communication protocols and adhering to the rules of call. Nothing interrupts the flow of a meeting like tech issues and it is very difficult to maintain the energy level in the room when participants aren’t able to hear each other clearly, or open attachments to read minutes that have been recorded.

To avoid the meeting becoming a tangle of off-agenda discussions, consider adding a brief agenda item with a specific time limit to each item on the agenda (BoardEffect). This will let the chair be in control of the meeting and ensure that all issues are addressed. To reduce time and interruptions, topics that are not controversial are able to be voted on as part of an agreed agenda.

It can be difficult for board members to connect with each other in a virtual world and some might not be comfortable speaking up. However, the board chair can encourage participation by inviting volunteers to guide each agenda item employing a hand-raising technique during the discussion. Additionally, it is beneficial to provide background information on each agenda item prior to the meeting so that directors can concentrate their attention on the discussion during the conference call.

Board members can collaborate online between meetings by using a secure document management system. This helps maintain productivity and accountability. It is essential to use the system that provides granular controls so that each director can view and edit documents and track any changes made by other directors. In addition, it is crucial to create a reminder calendar for the next meeting in order to increase http://seboardroom.com/how-to-structure-nonprofit-board-positions/ board member engagement and to motivate them to prepare ahead of time for the meeting.