Being on a Board is a privilege. It can be an exciting adventure, but at times – confusing with myriad regulations, legislative and compliance requirements.

Building a great team does not come from crossing your fingers and hoping – it’s a deliberate and ongoing organisational choice. We can overlook the most important ingredient of a successful Board – knowing how to work together with the Board’s strategic direction to achieve for the community.

Sometimes it’s just about taking some time to have a facilitator – an independent ear – to guide a conversation between Board members, as a group or individually, to identify key issues and find a way forward.

It’s also important to formally review the Board’s performance to gauge the level of member alignment with strategy and operational efficiency. A formal process, analysed by qualified personnel, takes much of the interpersonal and emotional tension out of voicing an opinion.