Successful board members are committed to the mission of the company, its clients, and its shareholders. Attendance at meetings is a top priority and they actively participate in discussions. They are well-versed of the business model, operations and policies. They stay abreast of the latest developments in their field as well as industry trends to ensure they can contribute to the company’s success in a timely manner.
They have control over their egos and are confident when working with other people. They understand how their actions impact other board members and the executive team. They are able to reduce conflict and tension within the team. This can lead to a deficiency of productive work or even an outright boycott of board meetings. They can be a powerful source of questioning which can help to uncover the root of any issue and prevent groupthink.
Strong board members possess extensive knowledge of their area and are able to provide fresh and useful ideas to others. They can serve as a mentor to executives and act as a spokesman for sensitive topics. They also excel at establishing relationships outside the boardroom and connecting other members with new connections.
They are aware of the high degree of governance required for their job and strive to fulfill their legal obligations. They are aware of any issues such as management, financial or personnel issues and take the necessary steps to address problems before they get worse. They also know that their role is to serve as a strategic partner for the CEO, helping them identify ways to reach their goals and maximize opportunities.
