- Start on time.
- Identify the meeting’s goals and each agenda item’s goal ahead of time.
- Set time limits for each agenda item.
- Have all reports submitted in writing with enough advance time for board members to read them, and have any recommendations for action highlighted in the reports.
- Use unanimous consent for uncontroversial questions.
- Don’t vote on minutes. Ask for any changes. If there are none, the minutes are adopted by unanimous consent.
- When a report contains only information and not any recommendations for action, don’t vote on it.
- When a motion comes from a committee, don’t ask for a second. The committee is presumed to include at least two in favor of its consideration. (Also, in small boards—about a dozen or fewer—motions need not be seconded.)
- Clearly articulate any desired action, typically in the form of a motion, to focus discussion. Don’t wait until the end of discussion to make a motion.
- If you’ve finished all business contained in the agenda, don’t vote to adjourn. After giving everyone an opportunity to present additional business, just adjourn.