Board KickStarter Breakfast - July 2019

Thanks everyone for joining me at the July Board KickStarter breakfast and, in particular, to our fabulous speakers Rachel Lowry and Michelle Shepherd for their informative, insightful and interesting stories and tips.
Here's a summary of some of their take-out messages:
Summary of key points
Rachel's 10 tips:
Familarise yourself with your skills matrix (or the skills matrix of the board you are seeking)
One-on-one with each Board member to build relationships
Swiss banks don't like to work with Australian Chairs!
Set the priorities - if the Chair isn't, help them out
Give everyone a voice
Not for profit doesn't mean no commercial nous
Check in on culture regularly
Set clear risk appetite for the different parts of the organisation
Support your CEO - set clear standards and have any discussions you need to have early
Make board meetings enjoyable - it's ok to have fun!
And from Michelle - she told us about her entry to board work, via volunteering, and her 'year of yes' and sometimes imposter syndrome. The three things she could really provide to the board is her PR expertise, knowledge of building a small business and her determination for the cause. Her observations:
As an organisation evolves, so do the seats at the table
Build relationships between Directors - you need trust and accountability
When recruiting new board members, go beyond the norm
Do Board training, even if you think you're not ready
Know the organisations issues and purpose (and the constitution!)
Get a coach and/or do Board Accelerator (thanks for the plug, Michelle!)
Say yes
Back yourself
A sample of the feedback from breakfast
Guest speakers ere wonderful
Format flowed beautifully
Fabulous opportunity to network
Marketplace was great - loved the opportunity - great idea!
Fantastic, fun and friendly event
Presentations were great
Great people attending - great room of women
Timing worked well
The venue, presenters and Helga were great!
Great rhythm
Engaging and dynamic Q&A
Everything was great!
Another fabulous event - so worthwhile
Communication, connection, concise, articulate speakers
My first time and I enjoyed the format
Interesting speakers - very engaging
Practical speeches
Friendly environment
Very inspiring
Discussions had and all welcome to comment and participate - very inviting
Table conversation was excellent


Interested in future Board KickStarter events? Let us know here and we'll make sure you're on the advance notice list!
Interested in a Board KickStarter group coaching program? Let us know here and we'll make sure you are on the list for the next intake.
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