Creating a Culture of Transparency and Openness Through Board Communications
The most productive boards have diverse board members with varying experiences and knowledge. This gives a broad variety of perspectives and ideas, fosters collaborative decision-making, and ensures that all board members are active participants in the discussions. It is also essential to create a culture that is open to and respects all voices. This includes dissenting voices.
People process information in different ways, and everyone has their own preferred method of communication. This is why it’s crucial for administrators to understand the preferences of each board member, and implement an effective communication strategy that caters to them individually. For instance, some older board members might prefer receiving a phone call to obtain important information, while others might be more comfortable with an email or text message.
A concise and clear format for receiving information helps them better understand the specifics of an issue and make informed choices between meetings. It also helps them quickly recognize and comprehend any potential risks or opportunities, as well as challenges that could impact the organization.
The tools that allow them to connect between meetings will enhance productivity and build rapport. It doesn’t matter if it’s an online calendar, board portal or a messaging app, the best tools permit seamless communication in-person and remotely, follow data protection guidelines and are accessible on any device.
