Video conferences allow remote board members to connect with one another, even if they are using different devices. For their meetings, non-profits can choose among a variety conferencing platforms, including Zoom, GoToMeeting WebEx, and Google Meet. Nonprofits may also opt to utilize a board management software that has a meeting interface that allows remote participation, without leaving the platform.

While most discussions in the meeting are conducted by audio and video, the ability of seeing faces can aid in encouraging more interactive and participatory meetings. To ensure that everyone is heard, the chair should call upon members of the board who have yet to speak, and limit the number of people speaking at once. This ensures that no one person dominates the discussion and ensures a balanced decision-making process. To reduce background noise invite participants to switch off their phones and press the muted button when they are not speaking.

Some directors might not be familiar with the virtual environment, and will be reluctant to speak to the group. This limits their engagement and their effectiveness. This can be addressed using an easy-to use meeting interface and a session of training that teaches attendees about the technology, and urging participants to practice before the meeting. The board could www.board-room.blog/how-characteristics-of-board-of-directors-affect-companys-performance/ also design a strict agenda with deadlines for each item. This will ensure that the meeting goes smoothly and that the desired result is realized. Board directors can highlight digital documents and take notes to improve their engagement and speed the meeting. They can share their annotations with other members to encourage collaboration and improve the quality of their minutes.