New directors have a short window to build influence. In the first hundred days the questions they ask signal the kind of board member they intend to be.

Ask about decisions, not reports

Strong directors ask which decisions are coming in the next two quarters and what information would change them. This moves the conversation from reviewing the past to shaping the future.

Spend time outside the boardroom

Visit sites, meet the next layer of management and read the customer complaints. Judgement comes from proximity.