As governing boards return to normal operations, hybrid board meetings are quickly becoming the commonplace. This new format allows directors and trustees of nonprofit organizations to be able to participate remotely at meetings and also attend in person at a later time. This is a great option for many boards, as it makes it easier to accommodate travel restrictions and quarantine periods. Hybrid board meetings can be difficult if they are not planned and executed properly.
One key element of an effective meeting is clear communication between in-person and remote participants. It is essential to have a high-speed videoconferencing system that lets both in-person and virtual participants to be heard clearly. It’s a good idea for participants in person to have their own audio speaker, and remote participants to be in a position to share their screen to make it easier for them to listen to the conversation.
A clear agenda is also important. This will help keep the meeting focused and on track, which is an issue that can arise when meetings run for too long. It is also helpful to have a quick break for participants who are https://itsboardroom.com/how-to-set-up-successful-hybrid-board-meetings/ in person to allow them to reenergize themselves and remain productive throughout the meeting.
It is recommended to have a designated facilitator for each meeting, especially during lively discussions. It is easy for people present in person to forget about their virtual counterparts and to overlook the tension caused due to some having a physical presence while others don’t. Facilitators can help bring balance to these differences, and help keep the board focused.