MEETINGS THAT WORK

MEETINGS THAT WORK!

"Unleashing The Power of Successful Board Meetings"

What kind of Meeting Are You Having?

Free-Wheeling Work Session (creative model)

High-Spirited Debate - Hammering Out Decisions (legislative model)

Overcoming Resistance - Getting Things Done (results-oriented model)

Carrying Out Routine Business In An Orderly Way Using An Agreed-Upon Agenda (process-oriented model)

A Poorly Run Meeting

Model of A 'Standard' Board Meeting

Strong Chairman - Statement of Purpose
Timed Agenda
Board Packets With Page #s & Dividers
Ambushes Not Allowed - Director's Questions Are Raised Before the Meeting So Responses Can Be Prepared
Discussion Limited to Fine-Tuning - Issues Not Ready For Action are Tabled
Tone Is Positive and Deferential
New Issues Are Taken Under Advisement

Ground Rules:

Positive Attitude
No Fractions . . . Each Director Votes Issues Based On His/Her Own Best Judgement
Always Assume Other Board Members, Manager and Staff Are Competent
Put Issues On the Agenda . . . No 'Gotchas'
Spend Time On the Business Plan Rather Than On Minor Operational Issues
Clarify Roles & Expectations

Follow-Up Tips . . .

Use Multi-Part 'Action List' Forms
Summarize Needed Action Before Leaving Each Agenda Item
Assign A Specific Deadline for Each Item
Place Manager's Report Early In Every Meeting and Include Status Report On 'Action Items'

Common Mistakes

Personality Problems - Watch Out For: