Anchoring points for corporate directors

by Robert Kirk Mueller

One remarkable organizational form that has served Western society well is the enterprise governed by an independent board of trustees or directors. Unless actions are taken to improve the conduct of publicly held corporations, this form may become an endangered species. There are many important understandings and ideas that exist in the covenantal relationships between directors including exploratory problem-solving techniques based on the different starting points or anchors of each director. The anchoring points regarding the unwritten elements of conduct and effectiveness of a member of the board of directors are illustrated through personal experience. Anchoring points are offered herein to directors and those wanting their first board seat. These points concern the idea of service without dominance in the boardroom; the anchors are about obeying the unenforceable in the area of corporate governance for the present time.