BOARD TALK is written by Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm who believe that "conversation is at the heart of board governance across the world." They first offer six conversational techniques (like observing, listening, and questioning) with a reflection on each. The heart of the book is the eighteen crucial conversations centered around topics like joining a board, talking about vision/values, and turning central ideas into action. They use models, checklists, and case studies to help readers tap into ideas about how boards operate. According to Bishop (a teacher at Oxford’s Saïd Business School) and Camm (an executive coach) they have an overall goal to "help you reflect on the nature of your board and your role in it, and to develop better conversations which will help you to perform your role well." Obviously, the authors speak directly to the readers whom they assume are members of public, private, or voluntary boards around the world. Their expertise in education and training is reflected in the text's use of bold font and bullet points, making it relatively easy for readers to extract and reflect on key points. Published by Alison Jones' Practical Inspiration Publishing, below is an interview she conducted with the two authors of BOARD TALK where they explore concepts of psychology, mindset, and group governance:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6H-8aNwMlg
BOARD TALK contains a list of useful information sources, notes, a bibliography, and a thorough index, including a reference to Reclaiming Conversation by Sherry Turkle.

This is such a timely book! I serve as board chair for one non=profit organization and just joined the board of another one. I have read other books on being a board member but have never seen one that is focused on all aspects of board leadership including how to pay attention to dynamics, how to cultivate better conversations (as a board member and with a special section for Board Chairs). There are models, checklists and case studies as well as summaries of key points at the end of each chapter. There are questions to ask yourself and others before joining a board. It also provides useful tips on how to really listen, and look -- knowing what the focus should be for different aspects of board governance whether it is operational or strategic. The authors are from the UK and it applies to all types of boards and commissions. I am pleased to say if you serve on U.S.-based non-profit boards, this is extremely applicable to you as well. I have already bookmarked pages that I will be referring to again and again. I highly recommend this book.

This is the first time I come across a book fully devoted to board management. This book contains approaches to conversations with board members, ideas and models in how to structure crucial conversations, techniques that have practical applications. There are case studies throughout the book to illustrate key points and summaries that highlight main ideas. Dealing with board members can be challenging however finding the right touch points, common ground and delivering communication that can be comprehensive and clear for decision making can bring compelling results.

"Board Talk: 18 Crucial Conversations That Count Inside and Outside the Boardroom" is an invaluable guide that offers a refreshing perspective on the complex world of board directorship. Authored by Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm, two distinguished leaders with decades of experience at board levels in various organizations, this book takes the reader on a journey into the heart of effective governance through the lens of 18 crucial conversations. As a new member of a Board of Managers, I am eager to learn more about my role and responsibilities, and this book provides a comprehensive and accessible roadmap for directors facing a variety of challenges. From understanding the inner workings of an organization to managing known and unknown risks, the authors emphasize the power of conversation as a tool for effective oversight and decision-making. They stress the importance of having the right conversations with the right people at the right time, making this book an essential resource for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of board governance.

The book demystifies the often complex and opaque world of boards and governance. It bridges the gap between theory and practical application, making it an accessible and essential resource for both new and seasoned board directors. It's a compelling narrative, providing the kind of insight that can only come from individuals who have not only observed but actively participated in boardroom dynamics.

The authors emphasize the importance of understanding an organization deeply, exercising effective oversight, and collaborating strategically. Through their guidance, they equip board directors to see the organization through multiple lenses - those of advisors, employees, and key stakeholders.

"Board Talk" also tackles the critical issue of risk management, which is increasingly relevant in today's volatile business environment. The book provides actionable strategies to address both known and unforeseen risks, ensuring that boards can proactively protect and enhance the organizations they serve.

The book has been written with clarity and simplicity. It doesn't get bogged down in jargon or technicalities, making it a genuinely accessible resource for a wide range of readers, from directors of PLCs to trustees of charities and governors of educational institutions.

Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm's book is not just based on their extensive experience but also on a carefully curated selection of relevant board research and their own research insights. This blend of practical wisdom and academic rigor gives the book a well-rounded and credible foundation.

In a world where governance and ethical leadership are at the forefront of business and organizational discussions, "Board Talk" couldn't have come at a better time. It's a guide for board directors and a must-read for anyone aspiring to take on such a role. The 18 crucial conversations outlined in the book are the keys to becoming the board that any organization truly needs.

"Board Talk: 18 Crucial Conversations That Count Inside and Outside the Boardroom" is an exceptional resource that transforms the complex and often daunting world of board directorship into an engaging and comprehensible journey. Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm provide the reader with a roadmap to becoming an effective and impactful board director. It's an indispensable book that empowers individuals to make a real difference within their organizations and, by extension, the world.

"A transformative conversation starter for every board director, 'Board Talk' is your key to unlocking the secrets of effective governance." — Unlocking the secrets of effective governance.

"Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm's 'Board Talk' is the definitive guide to becoming the board director your organization truly needs. A must-read for every aspiring leader." — The definitive guide to becoming the board director your organization needs.

"In 'Board Talk,' the authors distill decades of boardroom wisdom into 18 crucial conversations. It's the compass for board directors navigating the complexities of governance." — Navigating the complexities of governance with a compass of wisdom.

"The power of 'Board Talk' lies in its simplicity. It's the roadmap to effective board leadership, demystifying the world of governance for all." — The roadmap to effective board leadership.

"A beacon of clarity in the realm of board governance, 'Board Talk' equips directors to exercise oversight and make a real impact." — Clarity in the realm of board governance, making a real impact.

"Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm have written a timeless resource. 'Board Talk' is the conversation you need to be having for the success of your organization." — The timeless conversation for organizational success.

"The 18 crucial conversations in 'Board Talk' are the building blocks of effective governance. A practical and insightful guide for every board director." — Building blocks of effective governance.

"Unlock the potential of your board with 'Board Talk.' Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm's expertise shines in every conversation, making it a must-read for all directors." — Unlock the potential of your board with expertise in every conversation.

"'Board Talk' is a blueprint for board directors, providing actionable strategies for governance success. A vital resource for the modern era of ethical leadership." — A blueprint for governance success in the modern era.

"In a world where governance is paramount, 'Board Talk' is the North Star for board directors. An indispensable guide to creating lasting impact and ethical leadership." — The North Star for creating lasting impact and ethical leadership.

Bishop and Camm provide an essential guide for board directors on having crucial conversations to properly oversee organizations, offering insights on staying informed, managing risks, and providing strategic direction, drawing on their extensive board experience and curated research. While dense with information, the book breaks down complex board governance into actionable conversations across stakeholders that any director, trustee, or governor should have in their toolkit to ensure their board achieves oversight goals. For board members seeking to uplevel their governance conversations, this is a must-read playbook.

"Board Talk" by Kathryn Bishop and Gillian Camm is a user-friendly guide for both current and aspiring board members. The book empowers readers with practical conversational techniques, helping them navigate 18 crucial board-related discussions. Topics range from understanding the board's role to dealing with crises and risk management. What sets this book apart is its hands-on advice and clear frameworks that facilitate effective board communication and decision-making. "Board Talk" equips readers to be proactive and accountable board members while encouraging a focus on ethics and risk prevention. If you're looking to excel in board service, this book is a valuable resource.

I chose to read this book off Netgalley because I recently got a request to be on a board for a community based organization founded by a close friend, and I was hesitant because I previously got on one-and was not impressed by the communication and lack of transparency during a fundraising event.
Reading this book was to answer two key questions: what do you consider when accepting an invite to join a board? and what are some skills and insights needed to ensure effective participation/involvement in a board?

The authors- go above and beyond in even identifying the various kinds of boards, and stakeholders involved and what is key is that everything revolves around communication. How to have great conversation, involving, human-centered and focus driven approaches and that's what made reading this book right. I got answers to my questions and more insights as well on people management.

The format of writing involves a summary at the end of each chapter that gives you room to go over everything you read in that chapter.
Anyone interested in boards and looking to be a great board member to drive impactful activities could benefit from this book. Thanks Netgalley and the Publisher for the eARC, gave me the heads up on what to do next.