Do you know what the elements of a good board meeting are?

In this short clip from the Better Boards Conference, Brian Herd from CRH Law covers the elements of a good board meeting, how the minutes relate to the Agenda, what a basic Agenda should look like and how and why the Agenda should link to board member actions.

The elements of a good board meeting include:

• Clear agenda: A well-organised agenda that outlines the topics to be discussed, the time allocated for each topic, and the desired outcome of each discussion point.

• Preparation: Ensure that all board members have received the relevant documents, reports, and data well in advance, allowing them sufficient time to review and prepare.

• Punctuality: Start and end the meeting on time, demonstrating respect for participants’ schedules and maintaining a professional atmosphere.

• Effective chairperson: A skilled chairperson should lead the meeting, keeping discussions on track, managing time effectively, and ensuring that all voices are heard.

• Engaging presentation: Presenters should be well-prepared and able to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner, facilitating understanding and informed decision-making.

• Open and respectful dialogue: Encourage board members to express their opinions, ask questions, and engage in constructive debate, fostering a sense of collaboration and collective problem-solving.

• Action-oriented outcomes: Clearly define action items, assign responsibilities, and establish deadlines to ensure that decisions made during the meeting are effectively implemented.

• Minutes and follow-up: Accurate minutes should be taken during the meeting and distributed promptly afterwards, ensuring that all participants are informed of the outcomes and follow-up actions.

By incorporating these elements into your board meetings, you will create a productive and professional environment that promotes effective decision-making and strengthens the overall performance of your organisation.