Avoiding the Pitfalls of Holding a Board Meeting Online

Virtual board and remote work meeting seem to be here for the long haul as the pandemic demands businesses to change their working methods. The flexibility of a virtual meeting allows for attendees to take part without having to consider travel restrictions or quarantine periods and can also help reduce costs associated with hotels and flights.

Online meetings are simple to create and are becoming increasingly common for mission-driven organisations that want to maintain their communication open despite the COVID-19 crisis. It is essential to be aware of the dangers of digital meetings in order to avoid them and make your online board meetings as efficient as you can.

The most important aspect to consider is the software platform you choose for your virtual or hybrid board meetings. Choose one with the Waiting Room feature that protects your meeting from uninvited participants and only admits people who have been invited by the host or co-host. You should then provide training for your board members to help them get familiar with the technology and learn how to use it correctly.

Encourage your board members to use a headset or speakerphone for the duration of the meetings. Also encourage them to tidy and organize their home office to make it appear camera-ready. Take away personal photos and other items that distract them. Also remind that they sit in a chair rather than sitting on the bed or their couch to help them look more presentable and professional during the meeting. Encourage them to speak up at the beginning of the meeting to ensure that everyone hears and the meeting starts on positive note.

additional resources itcounts.org.uk/who-can-chair-a-board-meeting/