216. When was the last time we asked management how we might do a better job? (Question #14)

This season, every episode of OMG focuses on a question that directors really need to answer. OMG is written, produced, narrated and scored by Matt Fullbrook.   TRANSCRIPT: Question #14: When was the last time we asked management how we might do a better job? There are some really useful and normal things that boards do to make sure they’re doing a good job. For instance, most chairs build constructive relationships with CEOs and keep a regular dialogue going about how things are going. Most boards also do some form of board evaluation – formal or otherwise – to highlight problems and opportunities for improvement. The intent of this episode’s question isn’t to undermine the value of those endeavours. They’re obviously good and important things to do. But the question remains. When was the last time WE asked management how we might do a better job? As in, demonstrating a collective interest in learning from management – also collectively – how we might serve them better. In a way, I’m just trying to reiterate the substance of the previous two episodes in a new way. Suppose, for example, the board – while in camera or in executive session or whatever – agrees that the chair will request that the CEO gather feedback from their team based on a few questions. Questions like: “what are some things the board could do before or during or after board meetings that you would find really helpful?” Or, “what’s something that tends to happen before or during or after board meetings that you find really unhelpful?” You could even ask for feedback on specific behaviours or processes if you like. Most importantly, you must be prepared to respond to their feedback – either by actually doing a better job, or by clearly explaining why you think things are better they way they are.