As board members are increasingly accustomed to the convenience and cost savings of virtual meetings, they are also realizing that these meetings can be just as productive as meetings in person. The absence of time and travel constraints gives more board members to be involved, and increases the likelihood that a meaningful discussion can occur.
When preparing for an online board meeting, it’s essential to give clear instructions on how to use the software and any other tools. Many board management software companies have produced tutorial videos which are a great place to begin for novice users. Some also provide an «test drive» feature that allows users to test the software and iron out any technical issues before the actual meeting.
It is important to ensure that everyone is comfortable in the online board meeting by letting everyone know the rules of etiquette. You can follow a few guidelines regarding etiquette such as turning off the microphone when you’re not speaking, using the camera only when it’s being recorded, and avoiding personal photos at your office or meeting space.
In the end, it is crucial to keep the online board meeting on track and efficient. To accomplish this, make an agenda that is clear and specific prior to the meeting and then share it with attendees as soon as possible. In this way, attendees will have enough time to review materials and add their own points and prepare for the meeting. An organized agenda will also help keep the meeting on track and ensure that all topics are covered. It is also helpful to record and distribute minutes immediately after the meeting.