Board retreats involve a significant investment of money, time, and resources. But often, directors and staff leave retreats and planning sessions feeling like they’ve wasted their time. 

It’s imperative to plan the best, most effective board retreat possible. But what exactly does that entail? 

At a recent ATLAS Leadership Session, Tom Iselin, CEO at First Things First, led a discussion on why board retreats matter and how organizations can plan and execute effective, engaging events. “I want you to have the board retreat you wish you had,” said Iselin. 

During the session, Iselin covered topics including: 

• What to seek when hiring a retreat facilitator
• The key attributes of a great board retreat
• What criteria to consider as you plan your retreat

Here, we share key takeaways from the session.

A facilitator sets the tone for the entire board retreat. “You might think this is obvious, but it’s not,” said Iselin.

A dynamic, engaging facilitator can captivate and motivate audiences. But a dull facilitator can leave attendees checking their watches on repeat.

Iselin shared provided tips for what boards should seek in a potential retreat facilitator.

In-the-trenches experience

Great facilitators provide valuable insights they draw from their own success and challenges. “They know what it’s like to be in your shoes because they’ve walked in your shoes,” Iselin said.

He advised attendees to look for facilitators with diverse and high-level work experience who have built and run multiple organizations. He also warned attendees to be wary of charlatans.

Credibility

Great retreat facilitators are credible. “You might think that’s obvious,” said Iselin. “But it’s not as obvious as you might think.”

Credibility goes beyond a client list and references. “Great facilitators are trusted authorities,” he explained. 

Iselin advised directors to look for evidence that a potential retreat facilitator is a trusted thought leader. This evidence might come in the form of:

• A client list and reference
• Written and video testimonials
• Published books and articles
• Blog, video channel, and/or podcast
• Guest on national media
• Clean, organized website

Exceptional speaker

“How many times have you been on a board retreat and the person is boring?” asked Iselin. Probably more times than you’d care to admit.

Boards must aim to find a facilitator that is an exceptional speaker. They should be a master storyteller, with energy and enthusiasm that’s contagious.

“People are motivated to make change when inspired by great speakers and great content,” said Iselin. “You don’t need Tony Robbins or Simon Sinek, but find someone close. You can probably find someone who’s pretty darn good.” 

Confident facilitator

Great facilitators aren’t just going through sides. Instead, “great facilitators confidently take you on a journey of education, exploration, discussion, and action.” 

Iselin shared examples of questions to ask about potential facilitators:

• How do they handle steamrollers and hijackers?
• How do they manage disputes and ensure everyone has a voice?
• How do they create buy-in and build consensus?

Fun

Of course, business is the focus of a board retreat. However, board retreats can also be fun.

“People like to do business with people they like and trust,” said Iselin. “Strong relationships build teams.

Iselin encouraged attendees to learn what makes a potential facilitator’s retreats fun and lively. In addition, he advised directors to find out what icebreakers, team building exercises, and group work the facilitator uses. These are all opportunities for boards to get to know each other and have fun.