In addition to the meeting itself Board meetings require a great deal of preparation by many people. To ensure that these meetings are as efficient and productive as it is possible, all participants should adhere to the proper manners of a board meeting. This will ensure that the discussion stays on topic and prevent participants from wasting their time or distracting others.
It is crucial to avoid this by sending out the agenda, reports, and the discussion points a couple of days prior to the meeting. This will allow members to go through all the necessary information and prepare their comments and questions in advance. It’s also a good idea to inform the chair ahead of time that a member has an interest conflict whether it’s actual or possible. This will allow him or her to allow the member to declare the conflict and receive the abstention.
Respecting the opinions and contributions of other members is a further important aspect of the etiquette. Being attentive to the other speakers and refraining from interrupting them, even if you disagree with their opinions is an important part of this. Also, it means speaking clearly and only asking questions if you need to. It is also a good idea to turn off or put on silent your cellphone during the meeting, and only take personal calls in a crisis.
This will allow the participants concentrate and take part in the discussion fully. The most important thing you don’t want is for them to get distracted by your www.boardroomother.com/10-tips-for-mastering-nonprofit-governance mobile phone and worry whether your microphone has been turned off.