How to Address Common Board Members Communications Pitfalls

http://boardroomtalk.org/boardable-board-management-software-review

If it’s the CEO or chair of the board or a fellow board member, a smooth and effective communication is crucial for any company. But when it comes to the communication of board members there are a few common mistakes that can cause a lot of frustration, miscommunications and ultimately decreased trust.

Some of the most common complaints from board members comprise insufficient information, misinformation or being taken by surprise and not being valued. This can quickly damage relationships and hamper the ability for a board to take efficient decisions.

One way to address these issues is to make sure that communication with board members occurs in various ways. Utilizing a portal for board members, instant messaging, email, and video conferencing are all good options for facilitating the communication between board members between meetings. This means that less time to be spent on administrative tasks, and more time is available to strategic discussions.

It is also important to understand the preferred method of communication for every board member. Some are visual learners, while others prefer to read emails or phone calls. This can help you tailor your approach to different board members. You can ensure that they are provided with the most relevant information and that their needs are satisfied.

It is also important to communicate with the board members in a timely manner, evaluating each issue’s urgency and determining the right timeframe. If a topic is brought up that is not on the agenda for the next board meeting, it is best to put off the discussion until a later date.