Presence of executives as a key leadership skill. How to attain executive presence before, during and after the boardroom meeting?
Functions of the directors’ board
An effective board of directors is a key link in an effective corporate governance system. The effectiveness of the company depends on what tasks for management are set, what questions during meetings are asked and how carefully the information received from management are analyzed.
“Corporate governance” is a concept that covers the system of relationships between the executive bodies of the company, its board of directors, shareholders and other interested parties. Corporate governance is the basis for determining the goals of the company, defining the means to achieve these goals and mechanisms for controlling its activities by shareholders and other interested parties.
Executive presence in and out of the boardroom
Presence of executives is considered to be an important leadership skill in and out of the boardroom meeting. To establish an image of executive presence, you must demonstrate it via constant behavior. Increasing your efforts before, during, and after the board meeting indicates your potential on a consistent basis. Remember that being at your best brings out the best in everyone.
Using every chance to demonstrate executive presence provides and maintains a favorable image, and your confidence will inspire their trust in you. You will have a powerful impact on a boardroom and will always impress its members. You must be professional, balanced, and prepared before, during, and after a board meeting to attain executive presence.
Before the Meeting
Your actions before the meeting have an impact on its result even before it begins.
The first step in establishing your executive presence is detailed preparation.
It develops a positive tone, allowing not only you, but everyone in the meeting, to join the discussion with confidence in your leadership. What is more, taking the initiative ahead of time delivers the right message: everyone should prepare before attending.
Before your board meeting –
- go over past minutes, create a structured meeting agenda, and compile your board meeting package,
- consider the questions that board members may have as you prepare a meaningful and informative response,
- send out the agenda items and any required background material to board members in advance.
At the Meeting
As soon as you enter the room, the executive presence sends a strong message.
When you have the confidence to command a room, board members will pay attention to you and will remain engaged. Effective meetings focus on dialogues in order to make important choices that will help your organization achieve its objectives. To enable collaborative talks, you will need to command attention when running a board meeting. Your executive presence will guarantee that all items on the agenda are addressed and will motivate everyone to contribute their own ideas, allowing you to lead a mission-focused meeting that will leave everyone engaged.
Don’t forget that the more you pay attention to others, the more they pay attention to you.
Do not talk over or interrupt others, instead – listen to what each board member is saying.
When someone expresses their opinion, it is advisable to make eye contact, lean forward, and nod. When they have finished speaking, ask them questions.
Your actions and reactions will demonstrate that they have your full attention and will make each individual feel important.
Following the meeting
Executive presence throughout the meeting will leave every board member impressed, but your efforts should not stop there.
Following up with them after the meeting confirms the acceptance.
When you follow the meeting, you build another good connection with your board members, which helps to sustain your executive presence. It demonstrates your dependability and enthusiastic leadership.
So when a meeting closes, send an email to board members while the discussions are still fresh in their minds. The recommended time window is 24 hours following the meeting.
Include the recorded minutes as well as any follow-up documents, and remember to thank your board members.