How to Conduct a Successful Remote Board Meeting
A remote board meeting takes place via video conference call, in which the board members do not physically meet. This method of conducting business has become more popular during the coronavirus epidemic and will likely continue to be used following the pandemic.
Using the appropriate tools is essential to a successful and efficient remote board meeting. Board members must be able to access all the materials prior to the meeting. This will save you time and prevent confusion during the meeting. It’s also beneficial to keep a record of the meeting, especially when there is an abundance of discussion or if it is an extended meeting.
Encourage board members to be aware of their surroundings when taking part in the meeting. Distractions such as dogs barking, noisy street noises, or even the slight sound of television in a different room could distract and make it hard to concentrate during the meeting. Board members should ideally be able to sign into an office by using a closed, quiet door.
It is important to record the presence of every board member at the beginning of the meeting. This will not only ensure that everyone is present, but also sets the tone for the meeting and shows that it’s a significant issue. After each item on the agenda, it’s helpful to solicit feedback. This can increase participation and encourages participation even from remote members. The board can make decisions based on the feedback received following the meeting if it wishes to do so.
