Online board meetings are becoming more popular in the non-profit sector. As more boards opt for video meetings, the frequency of these meetings is growing. While there are a few who believe face-to-face meetings are more effective than virtual meetings, it’s essential to know the advantages of using virtual technology and how you can use it effectively to aid in productive discussions and decision-making.
1. Use a board meeting tool that is simple to use.
There are a myriad of low-cost or free online video conferencing platforms that could be used for your virtual board meeting. The important thing is to choose an option that is suitable for all members of your board. If your board members are scattered across the country, or even across the globe, it’s ideal to provide a screen sharing feature. If your board is budget-conscious it may be a good idea to think about audio-only phone conference options for those without video capabilities.
2. Start the meeting by presenting a concise agenda.
A shorter agenda helps the flow of your meeting and keeps the agenda from getting too long. It also requires you to only cover the most important subjects and ensures that every person gets a chance to speak.
3. Schedule the meeting for the time that is suitable for everyone.
You’ll have to think about the location of your board members as well as the times they can attend the meeting. Also, you should consider other factors that might influence their attendance for meetings, such as early or late breakfasts, busy commutes, and common break times.