If it’s the CEO or board chair or a fellow board member, communicating well is crucial for any company. But when it comes to board members communications there are common mistakes which can lead to frustration, misunderstandings and ultimately decreased trust.
Board members often complain of lack of information, getting misled or misled and not feeling valued. This can cause rifts and make it difficult for boards of directors to make informed decisions.
Communication with board members can be done in a variety of ways. To facilitate communication between board meetings, a portal for board members and video conferencing, instant messaging as well as email are excellent options. This means less time to be used for administrative tasks and more time is available during the meeting for strategic discussions.
It’s also crucial to know the preferred method of communication for each board member’s style of communication. For example, some people are visual learners while others prefer to read emails or make phone calls. This can help you to tailor your approach for various board members, making sure that they receive the most relevant information, and also having their requirements fulfilled.
It’s also crucial to communicate with board members in a proactive way, evaluating the urgency of each matter and the appropriate timeframe to respond. For example in the event that an issue comes up that’s not on the agenda at the next board meeting, it might be better to postpone the discussion until a later date.