If you’ve been pursuing board roles without success, you’re not alone. Many aspiring board directors find themselves frustrated with the process, wondering why they’re not securing the opportunities they desire. In most cases, the issue boils down to three critical areas.
1. Relying on Advertised Roles Alone
One of the most common mistakes is relying solely on the advertised board search market. You may be focusing on roles listed on platforms like the AICD job board, Women on Boards, LinkedIn, or Seek. While these can be good resources, they’re only one piece of the puzzle.
The truth is, the competition for advertised roles is fierce, and by confining yourself to these channels, you’re doing the bare minimum. Sending out applications and hoping for the best simply isn’t enough in today’s competitive environment. You need to dig deeper into unadvertised opportunities—often found through personal connections and targeted outreach.
2. Misalignment Between Your Brand and Board Roles
Another common problem is a disconnect between how you present yourself and how a board sees you. When I search for aspiring board directors online, I often find their profiles reflect their current executive roles—whether as a chief technology officer, project manager, lawyer, or CFO. What’s missing is the narrative that frames them as board-ready candidates.
Your board resume, LinkedIn profile, and overall personal brand need to tell a cohesive story about your readiness for governance. If your profile doesn’t align with what boards are seeking, you won’t stand out. Remember, it’s not just about having great experience—it’s about presenting it in a way that makes it clear you’re prepared for a board role.
3. Lack of Effective Networking
Finally, one of the biggest roadblocks is a lack of networking. Many people hoping to land a board role aren’t doing the legwork needed to build relationships with key decision-makers—chairs, non-executive directors, and influential industry leaders.
Securing a board position is rarely about submitting an application and waiting for a response. It’s about who you know and who knows you. If you’re not making a concerted effort to connect with the right people, you’re missing out on opportunities that often aren’t advertised at all.
How to Shift Your Strategy
If your current strategy isn’t working, it’s time to reevaluate. Ask yourself these key questions:
- Are you relying too heavily on advertised roles?
- Does your personal brand, both online and offline, reflect your suitability for board roles?
- Are you actively building relationships and networking with those who can open doors to board opportunities?
By addressing these three areas, you can significantly increase your chances of securing board roles and build the career you’re aiming for. Remember, it’s not just about ticking boxes—it’s about strategically positioning yourself for success.