Boards are made up of individuals, and individual personalities can either strengthen or destabilize a company. When strong emotions, past trauma, and ingrained patterns collide, structure and boundaries become essential.

1. Identify Personality Dynamics Early

Understanding each Board member’s personality, history, and triggers is crucial. When one member dominates with judgment and conflict, it can derail the Board’s function. Recognizing the “weak links” and how they interact with others sets the stage for productive interventions.

2. Separate Personal History From Professional Roles

Board members may carry unresolved personal or familial trauma into professional settings. Effective Boards distinguish personal conflicts from professional responsibilities, ensuring that the company’s decisions aren’t dictated by old patterns or emotional triggers.

3. Create Structure And Mediate Early

Strong structure, clear communication channels, defined roles, and standardized processes, prevents conflict from escalating. Mediating initial Board meetings reinforces these structures and helps members practice professional interactions despite personal differences.