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 forces companies to adapt to new working methods. The flexibility of a digital meeting allows for attendees to attend without having to take into account the restrictions on travel or quarantine times and also reduces costs associated with hotels and flights.

Online meetings are simple to set up and they’ve become frequent among mission-driven organizations that want to maintain https://itcounts.org.uk/who-can-chair-a-board-meeting/ their communication despite the COVID-19 crisis. It is important to be aware of the pitfalls of online meetings to avoid them and ensure that your online board meetings are as effective as possible.

The most important factor to consider is the software platform you choose for your virtual or hybrid board meetings. Choose a software platform that has the Waiting Room function to safeguard your meeting from intruders and only allow those who are invited by the co-host of the meeting or host. Give training to your board members so that they are familiar with the technology.

Encourage your board members, to use a speakerphone or headset for the duration of meetings. Also encourage them to clean and organize their office to make it appear camera-ready. Remove personal photographs and other distractions. Make sure they sit on chairs instead of their bed or couch. This will make them appear more professional and presentable during the meeting. In addition, encourage them speak up at the beginning of the meeting, so that everyone can hear them and start off the meeting on a positive note.