How to Evaluate the Performance of Your Association Board
The association board of directors plays a vital role in the success of any association. The board is responsible for setting the association's...
3 min read
AJ : Nov 7, 2023 11:11:32 AM
Difficult conversations are an inevitable part of leadership within associations. When managing an association, interacting with board members is a crucial aspect of the role. And sometimes, these interactions can be challenging.
Read on to discover where difficult conversations may arise and how to manage them.
Various situations can lead to difficult conversations with board members and are often related to the association's strategic direction, decision-making, interpersonal conflicts, or performance issues. Common reasons behind the need for such conversations may relate to:
Addressing these issues requires careful planning, active listening, and a commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions. By approaching difficult conversations with empathy, open-mindedness, and a focus on constructive outcomes, board members can navigate these challenges effectively.
Follow these steps to make any difficult conversation flow as smoothly as possible and ensure everyone is heard.
Before initiating any difficult conversation you must prepare. Understand the issue at hand, gather relevant data, and anticipate potential questions or objections. Being well-informed will boost your confidence and enable you to respond effectively during the conversation.
The environment in which the conversation takes place will affect the outcome. Opt for a private and neutral setting where both parties can comfortably express their thoughts and concerns. This setting fosters open dialogue and minimises distractions.
During the conversation, practise active listening. Demonstrate genuine interest in the board member’s perspective. Acknowledge their concerns and validate their emotions. Listening attentively not only shows respect but also helps in understanding their viewpoint better.
Empathy plays a vital role in resolving conflicts. Put yourself in the board member's shoes to comprehend their feelings and motivations. Demonstrating empathy creates a connection and shows that you value their perspective, even if you disagree.
Maintain a calm and composed demeanour, regardless of the situation. Emotional intelligence is key in handling difficult conversations. Emotional stability allows you to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, fostering a more constructive dialogue.
Choose your words carefully. Frame your sentences positively and focus on solutions rather than dwelling on the problem. Positive language encourages a cooperative atmosphere and promotes collaboration in finding resolutions.
Identify common goals or interests shared with the board member. Emphasising common ground can build rapport and serve as a foundation for finding mutually beneficial solutions. Highlighting shared objectives reinforces unity within the association.
Clearly outline the purpose of the conversation and the desired outcomes. Setting expectations provides a roadmap for the discussion and ensures that both parties are on the same page regarding the goals of the conversation.
After the conversation, follow up with the board member. Reiterate key points discussed, any agreements reached, and the action steps to be taken. Following up demonstrates your commitment to resolving the issue and reinforces accountability.
Reflect on each difficult conversation as a learning opportunity. Assess what worked well and what could have been handled differently. Continuous self-reflection enhances your communication skills and equips you for future challenging interactions.
Remember, handling difficult conversations is a skill that can be honed with practice and a willingness to learn. By approaching these interactions with empathy, active listening, and a solution-oriented mindset, association executives can foster a positive and collaborative environment within their organisations.
Offering professional development to your board members showcases your dedication to association governance. Our concise online micro-courses allow flexible, self-paced upskilling. Intuto offers a number of template governance modules for both new and existing board members. Interested? Let us know and we'll set a trial or demonstration for you.
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