What is the best advice for a director who has been away and is unprepared for an upcoming board meeting?

Being transparent about limitations and discussing how to stay informed is crucial for a director who feels unprepared for a board meeting. Open communication fosters a culture of trust and collaboration among board members. Acknowledging one's lack of preparation allows the director to seek assistance and clarifications from fellow board members who might have more current or relevant information. This approach can lead to a more effective meeting and ensure that important discussions can continue without misunderstanding or misinformation.

Additionally, by focusing on how to stay informed, the director sets a positive example, showing a commitment to their role and the board's effectiveness. This openness can provide an opportunity for the entire board to engage in a dialogue about how they can collectively facilitate better communication and information sharing moving forward, benefiting all members in future meetings.