Online board meetings are a great solution for the non-profit board members’ hectic schedules. They enable attendees to avoid traffic congestion, manage meeting deadlines, and eliminate travel costs. Board meetings online can be as effective with a few simple guidelines.
To increase the level of engagement It is essential to utilize tools that make meetings more lively and interactive. For example using video to interact with attendees can increase engagement since it allows attendees to gauge others’ body language and tap into non-verbal communication. Instant messengers can also be utilized to keep the conversation flowing. In the end, requiring attendees to announce their attendance can ensure that they are acknowledged and heard throughout the meeting.
The agenda should be carefully created so that everyone understands what is to be discussed and how it will be carried out. According to the Nonprofit Learning Labs, it is suggested that the agenda have 20% fewer items to allow for more time for discussion and interaction.
Virtual formats also provide new opportunities to participants who otherwise would be unable to participate due to time or cost constraints. This allows for the board to be able to incorporate new perspectives and ideas that can help make better decisions. Additionally, the elimination of physical barriers to participation allows the meeting to be more accessible to a wider audience. Dashboards for boards can help attendees prepare for meetings and provide information to talk about.