In-person board meetings offer https://seboardroom.com/how-to-set-up-text-to-donate-in-a-few-easy-steps more opportunities for conversations and non-verbal cues that aren’t possible to replicate in a virtual space. But, with a little planning and effort, nonprofits can ensure efficient meeting dynamics even when switching to an online format.

Utilizing the best practices of the past can allow virtual board meetings to be just as effective as in-person meetings. Consider the following tips to ensure that your meetings will be effective and enjoyable:

Comprehensive Preparation

Virtual meetings require a more thorough planning process than in-person sessions. A detailed agenda, with clearly defined discussion topics and time limits for each topic should be made available prior to the meeting to ensure directors are able to research any information they require and prepare questions or suggestions prior to the meeting begins.

Share Meeting Materials Early

If you are able to easily check your social media or your email, it’s easy to lose track of the meeting. Send out all meeting materials including documents, materials, and other information at least a week before the session. This will prevent participants from wasting time during meetings and allow them more time to participate in discussions and make decisions.

Utilize a virtual board management software platform such as OnBoard to give your board members access to all the necessary materials and resources before the meeting. In this way you will be able to avoid the frequent distractions of technical issues and connectivity problems that can derail or delay meetings. To avoid these issues request your board management software provider to test all the equipment and connections for each participant prior to the meeting.