Whether it’s the CEO, chair of the board, or a fellow board member, effective communication is essential for any business. However, when it comes down to communication between board members there are common pitfalls that can cause frustration, confusion and ultimately diminished trust.
Some of the most frequent complaints from board members include the lack of information, feeling confused or being taken by surprise and not being valued. This can rapidly damage relationships and hamper the ability for a board to make sound decisions.
Communication with board members can be accomplished in many different ways. Utilizing a board portal email, instant messaging, and video conferencing tools are all good options for facilitating communications with board members between meetings. This can help reduce time devoted to administrative tasks and allows more room for discussion during the meeting.
It’s also crucial to be aware of the preferred method of communication for each board member’s style of communication. Some people are visual learners, while others prefer to read email or phone calls. This can help you tailor your approach to the different board members. You can ensure that they get the most relevant information, and their needs are satisfied.
It’s also essential to engage with board members in a proactive manner by assessing the urgency of each issue and https://boardroomtalk.org/improving-board-communications-effective-online-solutions/ determining the most appropriate timeframe. If a topic is brought up that isn’t on the agenda for the next board meeting it may be best to defer discussion to a later date.