Board management positions require a lot commitment. You must be prepared to show up to unpaid meetings, study financial documents, and take legal accountability for an organization. If you’re willing to put in time and effort, board work is an excellent way to raise your profile, demonstrate leadership skills and help an organization with a mission you care about.
As a member of the board, you could be involved in matters of strategic importance such as assessing CEOs’ performance, analysing the market, as well as managing the direction of financial health. Additionally, you may be part of a committee which manages functions such as fundraising and human resources. This will give you a broader perspective on the company, and improve your decision-making abilities as a leader of a team or an individual contributor.
Being a board member also an chance to grow your professional network. You’ll meet other high-profile smart and well-connected individuals from fellow board members to strategic partners, investors and clients. This allows you to experience different perspectives and business strategies, and might inspire you to pursue changing careers or starting a new business.
Find an cause or organization that you are passionate about and research local or national organizations that could benefit from having a board member with the skills you have. Inform your contacts that you are interested in board posts. Also, look for a board management platform that includes flexible apps and meeting integrations so you can be involved from your home or on the go.