Board Management

Principles of Board Management

According to the International Council Meeting Decision Book, Board Management involves organising and coordinating the work of the board. We can distinguish coordinating the fulfilment of the board's activities and mediating when conflicts arise within the team. However, such formulations do not fully reflect the essence of these tasks. The Presidents' main responsibility is to provide support at every possible level, which makes the actual list of duties vary depending on the circumstances. Nevertheless, managing a team of leaders who also lead others within their respective area of activity and are responsible for it, shall be based on a few basic principles:

Never assume

When you are in a group of multiple different characters, it is difficult to make assumptions, that is why you shouldn't do it at all. Take your time to get to know the people around you instead of trying to implement various theories or rumours you heard from your predecessors or found on the Internet. Each team is different and needs its own recipe for smooth functioning. Your way of managing the team depends on the characteristics and preferences of your team members. Your strategy should focus on observing, taking notes and being flexible.

Be a leader, not a boss

The Board does not need a boss who gives orders but a leader who understands its needs and is able to empathise with the situation. The position of President means nothing without the trust of the rest of the team. People you have to work with have to follow your ideas because they consider them right, not because they have been forced. Everyone does this job voluntarily, so working on the right approach is essential to maintain a good atmosphere in the team. You shall be able to make decisions and take the initiative, but at the same time you need to know how to create space for others.

Don't be afraid of changes

The team is like a living organism that has to adapt to changing conditions. Evaluate your actions and decisions, check the solutions used on an ongoing basis because your relationships will develop over time and that will affect the way you work. It is important to point out that those changes do not always mean the failure of the previous way and, no matter what, prove that you strive for the best possible option.

What happened with the Board...

...stays within the Board. One of the most important principles determining mutual trust. You need to be sure that Board meetings and discussions are kept strictly confidential so that you can freely discuss the most sensitive topics. You can of course always ask for advice from some externals, e.g. Alumni, your international or national coach, when necessary but without informing the entire Network about internal arguments or issues.  

Prioritise team effort

Not only the President is responsible for Board management. In fact, the whole team should maintain a proper atmosphere and adhere to the rules. Don't take it all on yourself and don't be afraid to demand action from others - as others also need to pay attention to these responsibilities. Support and be ready to finally decide, but do not forget that you are one body composed of many elements, so close cooperation between of of its parts is the key to success.

In addition to these tips and tricks, to gain a better understanding of the complex concept of being a leader, it is beneficial to familiarise yourselves with this Tutorial on Leadership Styles.