How to Address Common Board Members Communications Pitfalls

Communication is a must for any business, whether it’s with the CEO, board chairman or fellow board members. However, when it comes down to communication between board members there are a few common mistakes that can lead to frustration, miscommunications and ultimately diminished trust.

The most common complaints from board members comprise an absence of information, misinformation or being surprised and not having their input valued. This can cause rifts and make it difficult for boards of directors to make informed decisions.

One way to tackle these issues is to make sure that communication with board members occurs in many different ways. Using a board portal, instant messaging, email, and video conferencing tools are all fantastic options to facilitate communication with board members between meetings. This reduces the time spent on administrative tasks and also frees up space for discussions that are strategic at the meeting.

It’s also important that you know the preferred style of communication of each board member. For instance, some are visual learners while others prefer to read emails or phone calls. This can help you to adapt your approach to different board members, ensuring that they receive the most relevant information, and also having their requirements satisfied.

It is also important to communicate with the board members in a timely manner, evaluating each issue’s urgency and determining the best timeframe. For example If an issue is raised that isn’t on the agenda for the next board meeting, it could be better to postpone discussion until a future date.

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