A safe board meeting is a chance for directors to express their opinions while being respectful, constructive and critical. This allows them to explore opinions and make well-informed decisions that aid in the success of the organization.
The board chair can help create a safe and secure environment for the boardroom by setting the tone and showing respect. They can also be involved to ensure that discussions are respectful and on the right track. The chair should also pace meetings to allow everyone to speak and allow the secretary the time to write notes.
A well-written agenda is a vital element of a successful board meeting. Prioritize the most important items and then shift less critical items to later meetings. The agenda should contain sections for executive sessions and reports that must be examined or approved.
Sending out the agenda, and any reports that need to be reviewed before the meeting will allow board members to do so. This will enable board members to be better prepared for the meeting, and cut down on time spent studying reports during the meeting.
It is also essential to allow plenty of discussion and questions during the meeting. It can be a challenge to finish an agenda without much discussion and debate. This is where a knowledgeable facilitator can help. Board members are welcome to discuss safety concerns, incidents, and possible hazards.
