Online board meetings are becoming a regular feature of the current world of nonprofits, with the number and popularity increasing as more boards opt for video meetings. Some believe that face-to-face meeting are better. However, it’s important to be aware of how to use virtual technology to help facilitate productive discussions and decision-making.
1. Make use of a board meeting tool that is simple to use.
There are many low-cost or free online video conference platforms that can be used to host your virtual board meeting. The most important thing is to choose the right platform for everyone on your board. If your board has members spread across the country or even around the world It is important to provide a screen-sharing option for the most enjoyable experience. If your board has a limited budget, you can also look at phone conference options that offer audio-only for those who do not have video capabilities.
2. Start the meeting with the agenda in a concise manner.
A shorter agenda can help the flow of your meeting and prevent it from becoming too long. It also forces you to stick to the most important topics and ensures that every person gets a chance to speak.
3. Set the meeting up for an time that is comfortable for all attendees.
You’ll need to think about the location of your board members, as well as the time they are able to attend the meeting. You should also take into consideration other factors that may hinder their attendance like early or late mornings, crowded commutes, and regular break times.