How to Address Common Board Members Communications Pitfalls

Whether it’s the CEO, chair of the board or a fellow board member, communicating well is crucial for any company. There are common pitfalls when it comes to board member communications that can http://boardroomtalk.org/improving-board-communications-effective-online-solutions cause frustration, miscommunication, and ultimately, a loss of trust.

Some of the most common complaints from board members involve insufficient information, being misled or being surprised and not being valued. This can cause rifts and make it difficult for a board of directors to take sound decisions.

Communication with board members is possible in a variety of ways. Utilizing a board portal, instant messaging, email and video conferencing are all excellent options to facilitate communications with board members between meetings. This helps reduce the time spent on administrative tasks and makes more room to have strategic discussions during the meeting.

In addition, it’s essential to understand each board member’s preferred style of communication. For instance, some prefer to be visual learners, while others prefer reading emails or make phone calls. This can help you tailor your approach to the different board members. You will ensure that they receive the most relevant information and that their needs are fulfilled.

It’s also crucial to communicate with board members in a proactive way by assessing the urgency of each issue and the appropriate response timeframe. For instance If an issue is raised that’s not scheduled for the next board meeting, it could be better to postpone the discussion until a later date.