Eight Tips for Presenting To Boards ©

1. Understand what boards do. Their goal is to enhance shareholders wealth. The Board is responsible for oversight and informed decision-making.

2. Put the "presentation" in perspective. You are qualified to present because you have information or recommendations that they need to make sound decisions.

3. Know your specific board audience. Who is the Chairperson, how many members, what is their background? Board members have egos, power, heavy responsibility, limited time and personal liability.

4. Know the purpose of your "presentation". Why you and why this presentation?

5. Plan. Get them your papers in advance. Know how much time you will have. Anticipate and prepare for tough questions. Know that presenting to the Board is not a typical presentation. Board members do not want to be "presented to". They will interrupt, discuss and ask questions.

6. Be concise. When presenting, know that the board members want facts, evidence and risk analysis to allow them to do their job.

7. Be professional. You are not one of them. Do not tell jokes. Do not be casual, too friendly or over familiar. Be conscious of your non-verbals and tone of your voice.

8. Thank them for their time.

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