The preparation for your board meeting is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure that your meeting is successful. A well-organized meeting is more likely to result in clear decision-making, and an efficient use of time for everyone.
This starts with the agenda. The agenda should clearly identify the main topics to be discussed as well as the decisions that need to be taken. The meeting materials should be sent out at least one week prior to the meeting to ensure that participants and Board members have time to prepare.
If there are any issues that require to be resolved or there is a shortage of information included in the board’s agenda it is a good idea to schedule a call with the appropriate people prior to the meeting. This will allow the Board member to discuss any concerns they have with the Management or CEO, and to request more information to prepare for the meeting. This will to reduce the number of questions that are asked during the meeting and also make it more efficient and productive.
It is also a good idea to do some background research or study into any issues that could be discussed at the meeting. You can do this in a the difference between shareholder and stakeholder variety of ways, from asking appropriate people for more information or contacting other sources. You’ll be better informed and be better able to ask thoughtful and insightful questions that bring value to the meeting.