The path to securing and excelling in a corporate board seat requires dedication, strategy, and consistency. With busy executive schedules, it can be challenging to carve out the necessary time. However, by optimizing your approach, you can make meaningful progress without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some top tips to help you maximize your time and stay on track with your boardroom aspirations.
1. Focus on What Works
Rather than trying to do everything all at once, prioritize the strategies that yield the best results. Pay attention to which networking events, board searches, and networking efforts generate traction. If certain approaches aren’t producing opportunities, pivot and refine your approach. Time is valuable—invest it in methods that deliver tangible outcomes. There’s a reason why our members love our proven networking approach so much. They know it works and it’s not going to waste their time!
2. Leverage Networking to Its Full Potential
Speaking of networking, it isn’t just about making connections—it’s about fostering meaningful relationships that can help you navigate your board career. Be strategic about attending board-related events, engaging with governance professionals, and staying active in industry circles.
For instance, attending exclusive networking events such as the Women in the Boardroom Board Assembly allows you to connect with seasoned board members, gain valuable insights, and uncover new opportunities.
3. Block Out Time for Consistency
Securing a board seat doesn’t happen overnight—it requires persistent effort. One of the best ways to ensure progress is by scheduling dedicated time in your calendar for board-related activities. Consider setting aside 30-60 minutes per week for tasks such as refining your board bio, researching opportunities, or engaging in networking conversations. Treat this time as a non-negotiable appointment with yourself.
4. Find an Accountability Partner
Having a trusted peer or mentor to check in with regularly can make all the difference. An accountability partner can help you stay focused, offer feedback, and provide motivation when challenges arise. Schedule biweekly or monthly check-ins to discuss progress, share insights, and refine your strategy. Our members tell us time and time again that having an accountability partner that meets with them is what helped them find success in landing a board seat.
5. Utilize Pockets of Time for Education and Staying Current
Your journey to the boardroom is also a learning process. While finding time for professional development may seem challenging, you can maximize efficiency by using small pockets of time:
- Listen to webinars or podcasts during your commute or while exercising. You can find our on-demand library here.
- Read board-related articles like these during coffee breaks or before meetings.
- Engage in quick LinkedIn networking while waiting for appointments.
- Use AI summaries to skim through lengthy governance reports
6. Be Selective About Board Opportunities
Not every board seat is the right fit. Evaluate potential opportunities based on:
- Time commitment – Can you realistically fulfill the responsibilities given your other obligations?
- Cultural fit – Do the board and leadership share your values and approach to governance?
- Strategic impact – Will you be able to contribute meaningfully and grow in your role?
By being intentional about where you serve, you’ll avoid stretching yourself too thin and ensure that your time is spent effectively.
7. Learn from Experienced Board Members
While learning from those who came before us is valuable, corporate board members are frequently asked to share their journeys with aspiring directors. Rather than using these conversations solely to hear their stories—many of which can be found in articles and interviews—focus on leveraging their insights to build connections and gain strategic guidance for your board aspirations.
Maximizing your time on your boardroom journey requires intentionality and smart strategies. By leveraging AI, creating consistent time blocks, finding accountability, focusing on effective tactics, and using pockets of time for education, you can make steady progress toward securing a board seat. Stay committed, refine your approach, and embrace the process—your future board position is within reach!
If you’re ready to learn more, I’d love to continue the conversation. Feel free to reach out to me directly.
Sheila Ronning, CEO & Founder, Women in the Boardroom.
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