Whether your board members meet in person or online the use of clear and transparent communication can result in more engaged boards and successful decision-making. It is crucial to find an effective communication system that is in sync with your organization’s culture and goals to provide your board with the tools they require to effectively navigate this process. We have put together an array of tips to ensure effective communication between board members.
Avoid «boardspeak» Beware of «boardspeak» — getting caught up in your nonprofit’s language can quickly turn a conversation into dumping of information. Instead, try to keep it brief and concise and always proofread.
Take note of the unique style of communication of each board members. Some people prefer to be visual, whereas others prefer to communicate in writing. Understanding these differences will enable you to communicate more effectively and build a strong board culture.
Set a routine for communications. Board meetings might be brief however it is crucial to provide a regular flow of useful site updates and re-iterations. Make sure to schedule check-in calls and emails at the same times each quarter or month so your board members are aware of what is going on.
Visual aids can help to clarify complicated data or information. Visual representations like graphs, charts and diagrams can help your board to understand patterns or trends that would otherwise be difficult to grasp. By connecting these findings to familiar concepts and analogies, you will make the information more understandable.