Let’s face it—keeping board members fully engaged during meetings can be a challenge. These are successful individuals with packed calendars and countless competing priorities. So when they show up, your agenda better be worth their time.
Too often, nonprofit board meetings fall into the trap of talking at members rather than engaging them. That’s where this simple exercise comes in: the 2-Minute Lightning Round.
Here’s how it works: at the start of each meeting, every board or council member shares one quick personal or professional update. Just two minutes per person.
Sounds simple, right? It is. But the impact is big.
Here’s why it works:
- It taps into pride. High achievers love to share their wins, and this gives them a moment to shine.
- It builds connection. These small updates help your board feel more like a team—and less like a group of strangers around a table.
- It sparks conversations. You’ll be amazed how many great side conversations start because of a shared experience or mutual connection.
- It opens doors. Sometimes, a casual update leads to a business referral, a new partnership, or even a fundraising opportunity.
As a major gift fundraiser, you already know relationships are everything. Use this Lightning Round not just to energize your meetings—but to deepen board member engagement, foster peer-to-peer connections, and create the kind of board culture that drives generosity and shared ownership of your mission.
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