Landing a board seat is a coveted goal for many executives looking to leverage their experience and make an impact in a new way. Whether you’re transitioning from a corporate career, seeking intellectual engagement, or aiming to help steer the future of a company, serving on a board can be incredibly rewarding. During a recent workshop led by executive career advisor Simeon Wong, insightful advice was shared on how executives can position themselves to land their first board role. Here are the top tips and strategies that emerged from the discussion.
Simeon highlighted a growing trend in the market: many executives are transitioning into board roles as part of their career’s final phase. Boards are not just about compensation and governance; they offer the opportunity to have a meaningful impact on companies while enjoying the variety of challenges that come with overseeing different businesses. More executives are looking to cap their careers by joining boards, which also presents a new avenue for income and intellectual stimulation.
Simeon explained that this surge in interest means executives need to be deliberate and strategic about pursuing board roles. Just as in the job market, competition for board seats is fierce, and waiting for the phone to ring is not a viable strategy.
One of the most crucial strategies Simeon shared is the importance of networking. The path to a board seat is built on relationships. Simeon urged executives to make a concerted effort to connect with individuals in positions of influence, including current board members, executive recruiters, and private equity firms.
Simeon stressed the value of both formal and informal networking. Attending industry conferences, workshops, and other networking events provides a platform to introduce yourself, share your background, and express your interest in board positions. Additionally, it’s important to make your intentions known to people in your professional circles. Letting them know you are actively seeking a board role can lead to valuable referrals.
Securing a board position requires a distinct value proposition that differs from applying for an executive role. Mike Lorelli, a senior board advisor who co-hosted the session, shared that sitting on a board involves providing strategic oversight rather than operational leadership. Therefore, your experience should be framed in terms of the governance, strategic insight, and advisory value you can offer.
Mike also emphasized that companies seeking new board members often look for expertise in specific areas, such as industry knowledge, financial acumen, or experience in overseeing major transformations. During your networking conversations or interviews for board roles, highlight the specific strategic insights you bring to the table.
Simeon and Mike both agreed that LinkedIn is an essential tool for executives aspiring to join boards. Many board searches now begin with LinkedIn, where recruiters and decision-makers scout for potential candidates. Mike shared that a “board-sticky” LinkedIn profile is a must. This means crafting a profile that prominently displays your board aspirations, key competencies, and industry experience.
A well-optimized LinkedIn profile should include:
Understanding where your experience is most valuable is crucial when seeking a board seat. Simeon suggested looking beyond public company boards and considering opportunities with private companies, private equity portfolio companies, and advisory boards. These types of boards may offer a stepping stone to larger, more prominent board roles down the line.
In particular, private equity firms are constantly seeking board members for their portfolio companies, making this an area of significant opportunity. If you have experience in operations, finance, or strategic transformations, your skill set is likely in demand among private equity boards.
Simeon emphasized that landing a board seat rarely happens overnight. It takes time, persistence, and strategic outreach. Executives need to run a “campaign” to secure a board seat, not unlike running a job search campaign. Simeon’s advice was simple but powerful: don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Reach out to key decision-makers, engage in thoughtful conversations, and be clear about the value you can provide.
As Mike noted, “Sitting at home, waiting for the phone to ring, is not an effective strategy.” Instead, put yourself in a position to be discovered by actively networking, optimizing your online presence, and showing up in places where board opportunities are discussed.
The path to securing your first board seat requires deliberate effort, a strategic mindset, and strong networking. By optimizing your LinkedIn profile, honing your pitch, and actively seeking out networking opportunities, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for board roles. Remember that persistence pays off, and with the right approach, you can land a board seat that aligns with your career goals and passions.
Whether you’re aiming to make an impact at a startup, a private equity portfolio company, or a large public organization, taking these proactive steps will give you a competitive edge in the increasingly sought-after world of board governance.
Ready to land your dream board seat? Take the first step today! Schedule a free consultation call with Simeon Wong and discover how BlueSteps Executive Career Services can fast-track your path to boardroom success. Click here to get started.
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