Board Retreat: Kick-Off to 2025!
A retreat for a board of directors focuses these stakeholders on why they are involved, and why they are committed to your organization.
The first quarter of your fiscal year is the best time to have a board retreat. For many organizations this timeframe coincides with the calendar year.
Here are a few guidelines to help you have a successful board retreat.
- Clearly define and communicate the purpose of the retreat.
- Schedule the retreat for a day and time when most, if not all, board members and senior staff can attend, preferably in-person. This may be a day during the work week or a Saturday morning.
- Hire a facilitator. This is not a DIY position for the staff or board.
- Include this expense in your budget.
- Invest in someone with a track record.
- Investing in a facilitator demonstrates to all involved the importance of this event.
- An outsider brings an impartial point of view to the board.
- They can ask the hard questions because, unlike board members and staff, they do not have a personal stake in the organization.
- Choose a venue that is conducive to a group meeting and that suits the culture of your organization. A corporate conference room may work for one group, but the living room at someone’s home may work for another.
- Keep it simple and have an agenda. Allow time for discussion and interactive planning.
Consider the following questions as you plan your agenda.
- What are the relevant issues that need to be addressed at the board level?
- Is it time to revisit the mission, vision and values of the organization?
- Does your organization have a strategic plan for the next three years that is used by the board and staff leadership?
- Is your organization actively involved in addressing equity, inclusion and diversity?
- What is the operational plan for the next twelve months?
At the end of the retreat, everyone should feel inspired and ready to get to work because goals, roles of responsibility, and deadlines have been clearly defined.
Lastly, consider a mid-year check-in at a board meeting or a half-day retreat. And remember, the best time to plan your next board retreat is right after this one.
Best Wishes for a Better New Year!
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