Board of Directors Protocol: Everything You Need To Know
The board of directors protocol describes the procedures related to the organization and execution of board meetings.3 min read
The board of directors protocol describes the procedures related to the organization and execution of board meetings. It's also called board etiquette and includes general advice that helps ensure that meetings are kept on-task and productive. Let's overview important aspects of the board of directors protocol.
Read Through the Bylaws
The bylaws of an organization usually dictate the number of members required to create a quorum and how often board meetings must be held. A quorum is the minimum number of members required to officially vote on issues and resolutions. Although board meetings can be held without the quorum, no official actions can take place during the meeting. Such actions include increment of dues, changing membership requirements, appointing officers, or amending bylaws.
Propose a Date for the Meeting
A date should be set for the meeting, and other board members must be contacted to determine if they can attend. Even if the number of members that intend to be present on the proposed date can make up a quorum, other factors may necessitate a change of date. Such factors may include the unavoidable absence of members holding key positions as well as outdated financial documents and other records/reports.
Once you've set the date suitable for everyone, book a meeting space and communicate the place, time, and date to board members. You should also make arrangements for equipment, refreshments, and other necessary items.
Send Out Assignments
If certain board members have roles to play during the meeting, it's best to contact and inform them individually or as a group. You should send out the action items arising from the last meeting to those concerned for review. Also include copies of the meeting's minutes since board members will need to deny, amend, or approve them at the upcoming meeting. Offer help to members who require assistance in making their presentations.
Draft the Agenda
When preparing the agenda for board meetings, the following items must be included:
- A call to order.
- Introduction of members.
- Approval of the last meeting's minutes.
- Review of old matters/issues.
- Committee reports.
- Treasurer's report.
- President's report.
- Discussion of new matters/issues.
- Adjournment.
The agenda must be relevant, clear, and concise. It should include the time, date, and meeting place as well as a comprehensive list of the items to be addressed during the board meeting.
Copies of the agenda should be sent to board members so that they know when they will be making their presentations. Be sure to include breaks in between sections (especially during long meetings) to enable board members to check in with their respective offices.
Meeting Format
A lot of boards use Robert's Rules of Order when conducting meetings. These rules represent an orderly system of making motions, presenting information, conducting business, and passing votes during a meeting. You should review these rules, especially the section concerned with raising and passing motions, to ensure that important items to be discussed are allowed under your bylaws.
Before adjourning the meeting, have the secretary or a designated replacement read out the action items and resolutions that were agreed upon during the meeting. Before calling a vote, you should confirm the number of attendees to ensure they make up a quorum.