As a board search consultant with over 15 years of experience, I’ve seen it all. I’ve recruited Chairs, Non-Executive Directors, Advisory Board Members, and Committee Members across every conceivable industry. Yet, despite the sophistication of this field, there’s a recurring frustration that I, and no doubt my peers, experience with many board candidates, especially those aspiring to join a board for the first time.

Understand the Role of Board Search Consultants

First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that board search consultants are not your mentors or career coaches. Their primary role is to identify top-tier candidates for board positions, not to guide you through your career progression or critique your resume. If you approach them without the right experience or credentials, you risk wasting a valuable opportunity. Before reaching out to a board search consultant, ensure you have:

• Formal Governance Training: A clear understanding of governance, including the differences between a Non-Executive Director and an Advisory Board Member, is fundamental.
• Relevant Board Experience: At least a couple of board appointments on your CV are essential before you approach top search firms.
• A Strong Board Resume: Your resume should be tailored specifically for board roles, highlighting your governance experience, strategic leadership, and the value you can bring to a board.

Preparation is Key

When you do get the chance to meet with a board search consultant, make sure you are fully prepared. This is not the time to ask basic questions that could easily be answered through your own research. Instead, use this meeting as an opportunity to pitch yourself as a strong candidate for future board roles. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Research the Consultant: Know who you’re meeting with. Understand the types of roles they typically fill, their client base, and their professional background. This will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate that you’ve done your homework.
• Be On Message: Clearly articulate your value proposition. What makes you a standout candidate for a board role? How have your past experiences prepared you for this? You need to be concise, focused, and ready to make a lasting impression.
• Play the Long Game: Even if there’s no immediate role available, your goal should be to build a relationship for the future. Make sure you leave the meeting having created a positive impression, with a plan to stay in touch.

Make a Lasting Impression

Remember, the process of engaging with a board search consultant is highly judgmental. From the moment you walk into the room (or appear on the screen in a virtual meeting), you are being assessed. Your appearance, communication skills, and overall demeanour are all under scrutiny. To stand out:

• Think Long-Term: Consider how you can contribute to the relationship, not just what you can gain from it. Approach the meeting as an opportunity to give, whether that’s through sharing insights, offering connections, or simply demonstrating your commitment to the process.
• Be Professional and Courteous: It’s not rocket science—it’s about common courtesy and business sense. Respect the consultant’s time, be punctual, and communicate clearly.

In essence, if you’re serious about building a board career, you need to approach board search consultants with your house in order. Make sure you’re fully prepared, understand the expectations, and are ready to make a strong, lasting impression. By doing so, you’ll position yourself as a top candidate, not just for current roles, but for future opportunities as well.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to take the next step in your board career, I invite you to book a complimentary board career assessment with me. Together, we can evaluate your experience, refine your strategy, and position you for success in the boardroom. Click here to book into my diary and start your journey towards securing your next board role.