Your LinkedIn profile is a critical tool for positioning yourself as a strong board candidate. Board recruiters and nominating committees often review LinkedIn profiles to assess leadership experience, governance expertise, and strategic insights. To ensure your profile works in your favor, follow these key do’s and don’ts.
1. Your Headline
Your headline should go beyond your current job title and reflect your board aspirations. It should be compelling and stand out.
✔️ DO: “Global | C-Suite | Fortune 500 | Qualified Financial Expert | Risk Management
❌ DON’T: “Chief Financial Officer at XYZ Corp” (This doesn’t indicate board readiness.)
2. Your Summary (About Section)
Your summary should clearly communicate your board value proposition.
✔️ DO: Focus on governance expertise, strategic leadership, and board motivations.
✔️ DO: Highlight relevant skills such as risk management, financial oversight, and industry knowledge.
✔️ DO: Keep it concise and compelling.
❌ DON’T: Treat it like a job-seeker’s resume or use vague language. Avoid listing job responsibilities without context.
3. Highlight Board Experience & Governance Skills
DO: Even if you haven’t served on a corporate board, emphasize:
✔️ Nonprofit or advisory board roles
✔️ Committee experience (audit, risk, governance)
✔️ Leadership in governance-related areas (regulatory compliance, ESG, DEI initiatives)
❌ DON’T: Assume board recruiters someone will infer your governance skills from your executive roles. Be explicit.
4. Strengthen Your Skills & Endorsements
✔️ DO: Include board-relevant skills like:
- Corporate Governance
- Risk Management
- Financial Oversight
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Strategic Planning
- ESG Leadership
❌ DON’T: Overlook the importance of skills endorsements—these add credibility.
5. Showcase Thought Leadership
✔️ DO: Share and comment on governance trends and industry updates.
✔️ DO: Publish LinkedIn articles on board governance and leadership topics.
✔️ DO: Engage in discussions with other board members and executives.
❌ DON’T: Let your profile remain static. Regular engagement increases visibility.
6. Leverage Your Network
✔️ DO: Expand your connections strategically—connect with board recruiters, corporate directors, and governance organizations.
✔️ DO: Engage with Women in the Boardroom and similar groups for networking.
✔️ DO: Reach out to past colleagues or mentors for board introductions.
❌ DON’T: Limit your network to only people you already know—proactively seek connections.
7. Update Your Contact Info & Settings
✔️ DO: Make it easy for individuals reach you about board opportunities by including your email.
✔️ DO: Set your profile to “open to work” for board opportunities.
✔️ DO: Use a professional, high-quality headshot that conveys confidence.
❌ DON’T: Assume a potential board appointee will message you through LinkedIn alone—provide direct contact options.
8. Final Thoughts
Optimizing your LinkedIn profile is essential for board positioning. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll enhance your credibility and visibility as a board candidate.
Are you ready to take the next step? I’d love to continue the conversation. Feel free to reach out to me directly.
Sheila Ronning, CEO & Founder, Women in the Boardroom.
© 2025, Women in the Boardroom. All rights reserved.
