Online board meetings are becoming more popular in the non-profit sector. As more boards begin to adopt video meetings, the frequency of these meetings is growing. While there are some who believe that face-to–face meetings are superior however, it is important to comprehend the benefits of using technology that is virtual and how to use it to facilitate productive discussions and decision-making.
1. Make use of a tool for board meetings that is easy to use.
There are many low-cost or free online video conference platforms that can be used to host your virtual board meeting. It is important to select the right platform for everyone on your board. If you have members who are spread out across the country, or even the globe, it is recommended to include a screen-sharing feature. If your board is on a budget you might want to consider audio-only phone conference options for those that do not have video capabilities.
2. Start the meeting with the agenda in a concise manner.
A shorter agenda aids in the flow of your meeting and prevents it from becoming too long. It also requires you to stick to the most important subjects and ensures that each person is given the opportunity to speak.
3. The meeting should be scheduled for the time that is comfortable for all attendees.
If your board members reside in different parts of the country or even around the world, you will be required to ensure that the time you schedule your meeting works for everyone. You will also need to be aware of any other factors that may impact their ability to participate such as early mornings or late night hours or busy commutes, as well as common breaks.