In board meetings, top leaders meet to discuss and debate issues crucial to their organizations. The results of these discussions set the organizational direction and impact everything from the confidence of investors to public perception. It is crucial for board directors to optimize the effectiveness and efficiency of their meetings. This article provides suggestions on how to conduct board meetings in a way that encourages productive and engaging discussions.

Start by welcoming and introducing every board member especially if they’re new to the meeting. This will help create an open and collaborative boardroom as well as encourage participation. It will also assist in establishing good boardroom etiquette.

Begin and end the meeting on time, as this is a sign of respect for other directors’ time and discourages tardiness. This is especially important when meeting through virtual methods, where time management can be a problem.

Avoid wasting time with routine or trite items, such a committee reports and voting. Instead, limit these activities to 25 percent of the time and use the majority of time to discuss strategy and other important issues.

Communicate clearly how decisions will taken at the meeting (consensus anonymous voting or a different method). This ensures that all board members are aware the decision-making process and take part in meaningful discussions.

Obtain feedback from board members regarding their satisfaction with the way in which your organization conducts its board meetings. You can do this through informal conversations, or using surveys and polling tools. You could ask, for instance, if the board’s structure and content encourages lively discussion. Also, you can ask them to rate meeting qualities on a number scale.