A board meeting gives you an opportunity to discuss important corporate issues with a variety of experts. They provide a range of perspectives which are essential when deciding on large-scale strategies or defining how teams are going to be working towards implementing these strategies.

The effectiveness of a meeting depends on the way the leader ensures that discussions are on the right track and guides the participants. No matter how energetic or thorough the agenda, should discussions diverge and go on for too long, meetings are not effective. It is also difficult for participants to prepare and participate if important documents are not delivered in advance.

To maximize the value from board meetings, start every meeting with a 10-minute recap, which repeats the most important points from previous meetings www.listoffreetrial.com/data-room-that-focuses-on-performance and the board’s document. This will help to clear the mind of board members and keep them focused on the issue at hand.

Getting sidetracked by new discussion topics can eat up precious meeting time and divert board members from more important agenda items. Reduce this issue by adding an “parking lot” item on the agenda for random discussion topics that may warrant some further study, but aren’t prioritised.

Once the agenda is set, it’s important to listen to the reports of the executive director, as well as any standing or committees. It’s also beneficial to have someone read financial reports however only if they require more discussion. After discussion is over, the chair should open the floor for a vote on each item. Before a vote can be called, a motion should be “seconded”.