Communication is essential for any company, whether it’s with the CEO or board chairman, or with fellow board members. There are common pitfalls when it comes board communication among members that can result in frustration, miscommunication, and ultimately a loss of trust.
Board members frequently complain about lack of information, or are misled and not feeling valued. This can cause a lot of damage to relationships and hamper the ability for a board member to make efficient decisions.
Communication with board members is possible in a variety of ways. Using a board portal, instant messaging, email, and video conferencing are all good options for facilitating communications with board members between meetings. This can help reduce the time spent on administrative tasks and allows more room for discussions that are strategic during http://boardroomtalk.org/board-of-directors-composition-best-practices the meeting.
It is also important to understand the preferred communication style of each board member. Some are visual learners, while others prefer reading emails or phone calls. This can help you to tailor your approach for different board members, ensuring that they receive the most relevant information, and also having their requirements met.
It’s also important to communicate with board members in a proactive manner and evaluate the urgency of each matter and the appropriate timeframe to respond. For example in the event that an issue comes up that isn’t on the agenda for the next board meeting, it may be best to defer discussion until a later time.