Online board meetings are becoming a regular part of the current world of nonprofits, with the number of and demand increasing as more boards take advantage of video-based meetings. Some people believe that face-to-face meeting are better. However, it’s crucial to know how to use virtual technology to aid in productive discussion and decision-making.
1. Make use of a board meeting tool that is simple to use.
There are a myriad of free or low-cost online video conference platforms that can be used for your virtual board meeting. It is important to select one that is appropriate for everyone in your board. If your board members are online board meeting scattered across the country, or even the world, it’s ideal to provide a screen sharing feature. If your board has a modest budget, you can also consider phone conference options which offer audio only for those who don’t have video capabilities.
2. Begin the meeting by presenting a concise agenda.
A shorter agenda can help the flow of your gathering and keeps it from becoming overly long. It also requires you to only cover the most important subjects and ensures that everyone gets a chance to speak.
3. Set the meeting up at a time that will work for all participants.
You will need to consider the location of your board members, as well as the times they can attend the meeting. You should also take into consideration other factors that might impact their attendance like early or late mornings, crowded commutes, or common break times.