It was not long ago that women on the board of directors was quite rare. Today, over 20% of all directors are women and that number is growing. However, the challenges associated with how to become a board member for women are still quite strong. But there are several methods that can be used in how to get on the board as a woman.
What follows are 12 proven ways to get on a board of directors for women. Of course, not all women are going to succeed, but then again, most men fail as well. By following these methods, you can maximize your chances of becoming a director.
Address the Needs of the Board
If you have found the board that you want to serve as director, then you will need to do the research and find out what areas they need to address. This is normally culled from the directors themselves as they may have plans which cannot be initiated because they lack the knowledge or experience that you might bring. Find out what the board needs and work on becoming an expert in those areas.
Become an Authority
Sometimes known as a thought leader, this means specializing in a market segment that board of directors are seeking. And while this is self-promotion, it is most effective in showing your experience and knowledge of important subjects.
Educate Yourself
It’s not about getting the most education, but rather the right education that will be attractive to the board of directors. Getting on the board means that you bring something more than simple experience within the company. Obtaining certification from respected centers such as the Harvard Business School or the National Association of Corporate Directors can only help you reach your goal.
However, this type of certification can be expensive. So, do not proceed unless it is something that will improve your chances of landing on the board.
Get to Know the Right People
Whoever said it is not what you know, but who you know was on to something. And while being properly educated and having experience are still essential elements to getting on the board of directors, it greatly helps to know the fundraisers and financial experts that will help make your ascendency to the board possible. This means gaining access to trustee or voluntary positions inside charities that you support.
Charities are an excellent way to help earn a position on the board of directors. This is because such positions offer excellent experience that help fill the gaps in many boards. You will learn how to assess finances and manage larger projects which is what board members are seeking.
Go for the Right Board
The goal is not just to sit on any board of directors, it is to join a board that reflects your interests and abilities. This is because boards are looking for those who can directly contribute.
If you have no general interest or specific knowledge that is useful to a board of directors, then they are most likely not going to hire you. Stick to applying to boards where you can contribute your knowledge and expertise.
Leadership Experience
A board of directors leads a company. Therefore, getting more leadership experience is crucial to getting on the board. The most obvious method is to lead projects from within the company, but you can do considerable good by working with non-profits, charities, and other organizations in leadership positions.
Learn from Your Mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes. Those who succeed learn from negative experiences and apply it to their next project.
After all, everyone on the board of directors has made mistakes from time to time. By learning from your mistakes, you can show both professional and personal growth.
Let People Know
If you do not tell people your goal is to be on the board of directors, then you may not get there. It may seem like bragging or being overly ambitious to tell people what your goals are within the company.
But the truth is that for many it will not be obvious unless you let people know your ambitions. This doesn’t mean openly campaigning for the position, but by keeping quiet you may get overlooked.
Network
The more people you know, the more likely you can make inroads into the board. Creating a professional network means building up your circle of influence.
This means expanding your presence not only within the company, but also in the industry. Proper networking can help establish links that will pay benefits as the board considers your qualifications.
Revisit Your Board Bio
A board bio is a highlight reel of your career. What is listed in the bio is what makes you get closer to your goal of getting on the board. This includes your qualifications, experiences, and what makes you different or unique compared to others.
Your board bio is what makes the first impression, so it needs to be a good one. Plus, you need to write and re-write it frequently to hone its message when sending it to various boards. This will be most helpful in highlighting what they may most appreciate about your attributes.
Search Firms
Understanding how to get on a board as a woman will most likely require contacting executive search firms. There are several highly rated search firms designed to help women reach the board of directors. In addition, you should work through the HR division at your own company and let them know that you are interested in a board position.
Take Advantage of Opportunities
Whatever you can do to gain notice and improve your standing should be part of the plan to get on a board of directors. This may mean volunteering, taking leadership positions, and initiating projects that benefit the company. Keep in mind that its not the work itself that earns you the place on the board, it’s that the board recognizes that you are an asset.
Understanding how to become a board member takes time, effort, patience, and focus. The more you hone your knowledge and experience, the more likely you are to get on a board.
