“No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it”.

H.E. Luccock

The Board of Directors of every organization is different. Unique. Sometimes, the most challenging part of working with a Board of Directors can be ensuring that everyone feels heard. To be a member of a Board of Directors frequently means that the chair person needs to facilitate the conversation and create an atmosphere where everyone contributes. Not easy but it can be done.

What to do when conflict arises between board members?

1. Remain neutral

2. Listen intently

3. Apply reflective listening

4. Ask questions to ensure you are understanding

5. Ask each person if they feel they are being understood

6. Summarize what you have heard them each say

7. Point out the areas where they agree

8. Offer solutions to bring both parties together in areas where they do not agree

9. Ask for their feedback to the solutions you offer

10. Summarize and end conversation

Two people cannot agree? If you are 100% certain that these two people will never see eye to eye and will never be able to work together harmoniously, privately offer to let them go from the Board of Directors. Why make this offer to both? Your neutrality is paramount. What may happen is that they both want to stay on the board and they will work through their conflict on their own.

Because you have to keep things moving forward, put the organization’s success ahead of Board of Directors’ personalities.