www.boardroompros.com/training-new-board-members-5-important-tips/

The benefits of being on a board are learning, prestige, leadership development and networking opportunities. Cammy and Ali also noted that it’s a way to get C-level skills in areas like governance, financials, marketing and public relations/communications while helping to shape the strategy and make decisions that impact a business.

You can identify opportunities by looking at nonprofit organizations in your local community. Our panelists recommend identifying those that you admire and contacting them to inquire if they have a board seat available, or an active volunteer position. They are also suggesting attending an event similar to a career fair which is a board match.

You’ll be expected to participate in meetings and provide strategic advice when necessary. You’ll also be responsible for fundraising and our panelists suggested that you look for an organization that you can contribute to at a level that you feel comfortable with.

The panelists in our panel stressed the importance of keeping up with paperwork and other responsibilities. This is particularly true since boards are becoming more hybrid and geographically diverse. They suggest looking for software that can streamline these processes and making the effort to keep in touch with your fellow board members via electronic communication and phone calls.

The panelists also discussed how being a part of a board can be incredibly rewarding. They recommend finding something you’re interested in and becoming an advocate for it, to help you find meaning in your work.