Preventing Board Meetings becoming Bored Meetings
I often hear “Why are some board members not engaged or even showing up?” Board meetings are necessary for nonprofit organizations but don't have to be boring, dry, and uninspiring. Instead, board meetings can be an effective strategy to engage board members and inspire them to become active and contributing members who achieve the organization’s most important goals.
There are generally three challenges boards face. First, the agenda is unclear with no clear objectives or outcomes. Second, there is too much time spent on routine reports and operational tasks. Third, there is an inefficient use of time with long-winded presentations and discussions.
Here are some best practices to consider:
Start and end the board meeting on time. Sounds simple enough right?
Use consent agenda and place time limits on each agenda item.
Place the most important agenda items first on the agenda. Often the most important agenda items are placed last on the agenda. Agenda items should be strategic and not operational—that is the staff’s responsibility.
Make sure every board member has had a chance to speak—ask board members that haven’t spoken if they have anything they would like to share.
Rearrange the room’s table set up to encourage small group discussion when agenda items need group conversation first.
Include generative agenda items on issues impacting the communities or the clients you serve.
End the meeting on a high note—maybe a mission moment, a successful donor solicitation story, or final thoughts that give the feeling of optimism and hope for the future to remind board members of the impact the organization has.
The Board Chair plays a crucial role in facilitating the board meeting and ensuring its effectiveness. They act as the conductor of the orchestra, guiding the discussion, fostering engagement, and creating an environment where all board members can contribute meaningfully. Board Chairs should
preside over the discussion and ensure all voices are heard.
summarizes key points and facilitates the decision-making process.
promotes the culture of inquiry with respectful and constructive dialogue.
manages time effectively and keeps the meeting on track.
ensures all action items are clearly defined and assigned
Ultimately, whether a board meeting is boring or engaging depends on the effort put into its design and execution. If it’s the same agenda, meeting after meeting, then don’t expect different results. We all know that’s the definition of insanity. Following these practices and adapting them to your specific board's needs can create a more engaging, productive, and ultimately more valuable board meeting experience.