Develop Leadership Skills through Board Service
Ready to move into a leadership role but lack formal leadership experience?
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Requires exceptional leadership skills with demonstrated ability to motivate and sustain a positive inclusive environment
Minimum 2 years of leadership experience
5+ years of experience as a manager or director
Strong people skills – ability to influence at all levels of the organization
At least five years of progressively responsible experience
Build and manage a high performing team
Successful track record in managing teams of 5 or more people
Tired of not getting an interview because you lack formal leadership experience? Of course you lack formal experience, isn’t that why you want to move up. . .to get experience? This can be so frustrating for employees who have the potential and leadership qualities but lack the experience. How do you get leadership experience when it is always required?
Experience can come from many places, not just on the job. I have found that one of the best ways to gain experience is through Board Service. There are so many non-profits that need your expertise and in return offer you the ability to gain experience in other areas.
Volunteering on a non-profit board of directors can be a rewarding and enriching experience, in addition to building critical leadership and business skills. It allows you to actively contribute to a cause or organization that aligns with your values and beliefs. You have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community and help address important social, environmental, or humanitarian issues.
I have served on the International Coaching Federation Houston chapter board for almost four years. Having this opportunity to serve on the board has provided me with many opportunities, here are just a few:
Networking and Connections: this experience has given me the opportunity to expand my professional network significantly, to work with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, including other board members, our membership, and other community leaders. These connections have led to business opportunities and collaborations.
Skill Development: having started on the board in a support role, I am now the President, responsible for the re-engaging membership, building the board, managing finances, governance, advocacy, succession planning, and more. It's given me a chance to apply and develop expertise in a real-world setting.
Exposure to Different Perspectives: our board consists of individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and expertise, engaging with these perspectives has broadened my horizons, challenged my assumptions, and helped me become a more empathetic and open-minded leader.
Personal Fulfillment and Satisfaction: Volunteering for ICF has been deeply fulfilling, knowing that I am contributing my time and skills to a cause that matters. It has offered a sense of purpose and satisfaction that can be difficult to find in other activities.
Learning about Non-Profit Operations: coming from a corporate background, I was not familiar with the nuances of the non-profit sector. Serving on the board has provided valuable insights into the inner workings of non-profit organizations.
Personal Growth and Development: Being on the board has challenged me to grow personally and professionally. I have faced complex situations, learned to manage conflicts, and developed my ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of people.
Tips for finding a board position:
Start by identifying your interests, or the cause you are most passionate about
Do your research, find non-profits that align with your interest / passion
Network and get engaged with those non-profits
Consider starting small, try a committee or other work to build credibility and trust
Research requirements to getting a board position
Create a resume specific for board service
Use on-line platforms like BoardMatch, Idealist, and LinkedIn's Board Connect
Be persistent and patient, it takes time to find the right fit
