Illustration by Edmon de Haro

“The chair sets the tone. Chairs should ensure that the board is hearing diverse perspectives on hot-button issues, and the chair should listen with care to dissenters. Ideally, the board meeting is a safe place for members to share insights and ask questions openly. Some board members may feel uneasy with dissent, equating it with ‘not being a team player.’ But the chair’s attitude toward the dissenter sets the tone. The chair has a special duty to keep the conversation unemotional and respectful.”

From: Advice for the board chair: Avoid the Stockholm syndrome, In Trust Magazine

Question for consideration:

How does your board culture ensure that all voices are heard and balanced?