I will always remember my first facilitated session, which had emotions running high. Since that first session, I've learned that this is a common occurrence in board and council sessions, as the members are usually passionate about improving their community. Since that first session, I've made it a priority to spend extra time understanding and working through these emotional phases.
During a typical Board Governance Orientation, we discuss the stages of forming, storming, norming, and performing, which occur when a new group starts working together. We also cover the specifics of the board member's role compared to administrative responsibilities.
The forming and storming phases involve the group establishing its identity, how members will work together, and understanding each other's personalities. This can sometimes create tension within the group. Good governance is crucial for navigating the forming and storming phases. Once a board learns its role and the importance of governance, it can effectively address conflicts related to personalities and ideas.
When board members don't get along or work well together, proper governance processes can help resolve these issues. Boards at a proper governance level can effectively handle personality conflicts and disagreements.
Developing governance skills requires training, experience, and guidance. With the right combination of these, any board can learn to move past issues that are not related to governance.
Would you like to share your thoughts or discuss how this issue is affecting your community? You can reach me at Lauren@strategicsteps.ca.
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