Engagement is absolutely key. A candidate who’s engaged throughout the recruitment process is far more likely to accept an offer and thrive in their new role. This got me thinking about how the same principle of engagement applies to another crucial area: board meetings.
For many, the thought of a board meeting conjures up images of lengthy presentations, one-way communication, and perhaps a general feeling of… well, let’s just say not exactly excitement. But just like a disengaged candidate is a missed opportunity, a board meeting where members aren't truly participating is a missed chance for valuable insights and strategic direction.
That’s why I’ve been so impressed by what I’ve seen with platforms like Zeck. They’re shifting the paradigm from a presentation-heavy format to one that encourages active participation. By offering an interactive platform where board members can engage with the material beforehand, collaborate during the meeting, and have meaningful discussions, Zeck is essentially applying the principles of engagement to the boardroom.
Think about it. In talent acquisition, we strive to create a positive and interactive experience for candidates. We want them to feel heard, to ask questions, and to be genuinely excited about the opportunity. Shouldn’t we aim for the same level of engagement with our board members? They bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, and their active participation is vital for effective governance.
Just as a well-crafted job description and a thoughtful interview process can engage a candidate, Zeck provides the tools to create a more engaging experience for board members. Features like pre-meeting comments and discussions, real-time collaboration, and focused agendas all contribute to a more dynamic and participatory environment.
The parallels between talent acquisition and board meetings might not be immediately obvious, but at their core, both are about fostering meaningful connections and driving toward a common goal. In recruitment, it’s about connecting the right talent with the right company. In board meetings, it’s about connecting the collective wisdom of the board with the strategic objectives of the organization. And in both cases, engagement is the crucial ingredient for success.
Inspired by Zeck’s innovative approach to board meetings, I believe there’s a valuable lesson here for all of us. Whether we’re trying to attract top talent or facilitate a high-stakes board discussion, focusing on engagement—creating opportunities for active participation, open communication, and genuine collaboration—is the key to unlocking better outcomes. It’s about moving beyond simply presenting information and fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and insights. And that, in my book, is a game-changer.
In addition, engagement isn’t just about participation—it’s about accountability. Just like wargaming different strategic scenarios helps elite military units prepare for every possible outcome, organizations should be wargaming board leadership and effectiveness to ensure that their governance model is battle-tested and resilient. If a board is filled with passive members, the company is exposed to blind spots, slow decision-making, and missed opportunities. True board effectiveness comes from deliberate engagement, constant evaluation, and the ability to pivot when necessary.