Serving Virtually, Leading Professionally

Board and committee members play an important role in shaping the future of GAAR and SWMLS. Whether you're attending in person or joining remotely, your participation helps move important initiatives forward.

Virtual meetings offer flexibility, but they also come with the responsibility to remain engaged, prepared, and professional. To ensure meetings run smoothly and every member has an opportunity to contribute, we've established a few best practices for all Board and committee meetings. These guidelines help maintain productive discussions, accurate attendance records, and an environment where everyone can participate effectively.

Before You Join

Take a few minutes before the meeting begins to:

• Log in early to test your audio and camera.
• Verify that your Zoom display name matches your full name for attendance purposes.
• Choose a quiet location where confidential discussions cannot be overheard.

Keep Your Camera On

Seeing one another creates a more collaborative and engaging meeting experience. Board and committee service is a commitment to active participation, so members are expected to keep their cameras on throughout the meeting whenever possible.

If technical issues prevent you from using video, please notify staff before the meeting begins.

Stay Engaged

Virtual meetings deserve the same attention and professionalism as in-person meetings.

That means limiting distractions, avoiding multitasking, and remaining focused throughout the discussion. Your input is valuable, and your engagement helps committees and Boards make informed decisions.

Follow Meeting Etiquette

To keep conversations organized and ensure everyone has an opportunity to speak:

• Use the Raise Hand feature when you'd like to contribute.
• Wait to be recognized by the President or Committee Chair before unmuting.
• Mute your microphone whenever you're not speaking.

These simple practices help prevent interruptions and keep discussions moving efficiently.

Board Attendance Requirements

If you're serving on a Board, please be aware of the electronic attendance requirements.

GAAR Board of Directors: Electronic attendance requires approval from the President of the Board.

SWMLS Board of Directors: The Bylaws allow attendance at up to two meetings electronically each calendar year. Members are encouraged to coordinate with the President of the Board in advance so appropriate accommodations can be made.

Thank You for Your Service

Thank you for volunteering your time and expertise to serve GAAR and SWMLS. By following these best practices, you help create productive meetings where every member can participate, collaborate, and make informed decisions that benefit our Association and MLS.

GAAR/SWMLS Best Practices Info Sheet

Click the image below to view and download