How to become a board member in 7 steps
The board of directors is at the pinnacle of the corporate world, with both seasoned and emerging leaders wondering how to make the climb. Research like the PwC Annual Corporate Directors Survey shed some light on how to become a board member; for example, financial and industry expertise were the most in-demand skills, as were the unique perspectives diversity brings to the board.
Possessing in-demand competencies can go a long way toward becoming a board member, but it’s also important to demystify the process so you know exactly which path to follow. Here, we’ll explain:
- How one gets to be a board member
- Essential qualifications you’ll need
- How to become a member of a corporate board, nonprofit board or school board
- How to become a board member if you have little to no experience
- What happens after you become a board member
How does one get to be a board member?
Become a board member often starts with earning the respect of your field. If you hold expertise that aligns with an organization’s needs, you are an obvious fit for vacancies that may arise. Successful board member candidates are often known for their leadership, integrity and the ability to build meaningful relationships.
Once you gain recognition for your skills and commitment, you may be invited to join a board or apply for open positions. The process usually involves expressing interest, sharing a track record of relevant experience and engaging in discussions to ensure you align with the organization’s goals. For those who succeed, serving on a board offers an opportunity to impact an organization’s future.
Qualifications you need before becoming a board member
There are no universal requirements for board membership. In fact, boards thrive off of diverse perspectives, experiences and areas of expertise. That said, most organizations look for board members with:
- Professional expertise: Skills in finance, law, fundraising, governance, strategic planning, or industry-specific knowledge are routinely in demand in most boardrooms.
- Leadership experience: Prior experience in executive, committee service or advisory roles can set you apart from other candidates.
- A strategic mindset: The ability to analyze challenges, offer solutions and guide long-term decision-making is invaluable to boards and the organizations they serve, as boards typically provide strategic oversight.
- An inclination for collaboration and communication: Strong interpersonal skills and a willingness to work alongside board members, leadership and other stakeholders will help you build relationships among the board and drive productive discussions.
- Commitment and availability: A willingness to contribute time, attend meetings and support the organization’s mission beyond boardroom discussions is essential, as joining a board can be a significant commitment.
How to become a board member
Different boards have different requirements for their members. That said, building a strong reputation, networking with relevant leaders and organizations and actively seeking opportunities are all part of the process whether you’re aiming for a corporate, nonprofit or school board.
Below are specific steps for different types of boards.
Corporate board
Joining a corporate board is often more competitive than other boards and requires credibility, leadership experience and a robust network. You can improve your chances by:
- Developing executive-level experience: Many directors previously served in executive-level roles. Gaining experience leading a department or an entire company in industries like finance or technology can make you a clear candidate for a board appointment.
- Gaining board or advisory experience: Boards seek candidates with proven strategic oversight. Serving on a nonprofit or advisory board can help you develop this skill and offer evidence of your success.
- Building a strong professional network: A referral from a trusted source can open the boardroom door for you. Engage with board members, executives and leaders to stay on their radar should they become aware of open board seats.
- Enhancing your visibility: Speak at industry events, publish thought leader content or join professional organizations to establish yourself as an authority in your field.
- Understanding corporate governance: Good governance originates from the board. Familiarize yourself with corporate governance best practices and regulatory requirements specific to the boards you’re interested in joining.
- Working with a board recruitment firm: These specialized executive search firms help match candidates to open board seats. Engaging a firm supporting industries or organizations you’re interested in can increase your chances of securing a nomination.
- Demonstrating your value: If a board considers you for a vacancy, showcase how your skills align with the company’s strategic needs and within the board’s dynamic.
Nonprofit board
Nonprofit boards look for individuals committed to their mission, often prioritizing passion and community engagement over corporate experience. Here’s how to join one:
- Find a cause you care about: Choose a nonprofit whose mission aligns with your values and expertise.
- Engage as a volunteer or donor: Active involvement with the organization shows your commitment and helps you build relationships with board members and leadership. Expressing your interest in a board position to key leadership can get your foot in the door.
- Develop relevant skills: Nonprofits often tap into their boards for fundraising, finance, governance or marketing leadership. Strengthening your knowledge in these areas can increase your competitiveness as a candidate.
- Serve on a committee: Many boards recruit from their committees. Joining the finance, development or program committee can be a stepping stone.
- Research board openings and application processes: Some nonprofits have formal application procedures or nomination processes for board positions. Others may advertise board vacancies openly, to which you can apply directly.
- Demonstrate your value: If selected for an interview, highlight how your skills, expertise and values can benefit the nonprofit’s goals, particularly those related to fundraising or key programs or operations.
- Make a financial commitment (if needed): Many nonprofit boards expect members to contribute financially or assist with fundraising efforts.
School boards
Joining a school board is unique. Unlike corporate or nonprofit boards, becoming a school board member often involves an election. This will require you to engage and campaign with the public to win their vote and, ultimately, secure a school board position. Learn more in our blog about school board membership.
How to become a board member with no experience
Breaking into a board position with little experience can seem challenging, but it’s entirely possible. Building the right skills, networks and visibility early in your career can be invaluable, particularly as boards look for candidates from emerging industries. Here’s how to position yourself for an early-career board role:
- Develop relevant expertise: Boards increasingly value young, tech-savvy and innovative people who can bring a fresh perspective. Cultivating in-demand skills with AI and other technologies can offset the years of experience you may lack.
- Network with board members and leaders: Landing a board position is about who you know as much as it is about what you know. Build relationships with people serving on boards over time and express your interest in joining when appropriate.
- Enhance your professional profile: Speak at events, publish articles and develop your personal brand online to position yourself as a knowledgeable professional. While you’ll likely have to pitch yourself at first, the more visible you are, the more in demand you’ll become.
- Express interest and apply: Research board openings and reach out to organizations. Be ready to articulate your value if you gain traction, as boards need a compelling reason to take a chance on a new-to-the-field board member.
Becoming a board member is just the beginning
Earning a seat on a board is an achievement worth celebrating. But what comes next? Best-in-class board members are engaged and collaborative and bring their expertise to benefit the entire board and the organization it serves.
As a result, knowing how to become a board member is only one side of the coin. The other is cultivating the skills and carving out the time to offer the strategic oversight organizational performance depends on.
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