First, make a separate section for "Board of Directors" and list it before or after your "Experience" section. In this section, include the name of the organization, your title, and the dates you served. For each organization, you can also include a brief description of your role and responsibilities.
For a smaller board, the process often involves being interviewed, whereas larger organizations tend to have a more formalized review before nominating someone for a seat. In publicly traded companies, board members are approved by shareholders at the recommendation of management.
The path to becoming a board member typically involves earning a bachelor's degree in a related field, gaining industry-specific experience, self-promotion, networking, researching potential companies, and creating a strong resume demonstrating relevant skills and experiences.
Normally, the board or the shareholders by an ordinary resolution (a majority in favour) decide the appointment. The Articles may contain provisions that require more than 51% of shareholders to agree to the appointment.
After learning about the organization, consider reaching out to the chief executive, chair or board governance committee chair to indicate your interest in joining their board. It's important to understand their board member expectations and commitment.
On your resume or CV, board posts indicate high-level decision making skills, management acumen and responsibility. All this raises you profile significantly, simplifying any future job search. You'll find that this valuable board member experience brings another level of confidence to go with it.
Write an opening paragraph In the opening paragraph, introduce yourself and state why you're interested in the board member position. This is your chance to gain the hiring manager's attention, so include any relevant experience or qualifications that make you a good fit for the position.
What should a board member cover letter include? A brief introduction of yourself. Your relevant skills and experience. Highlights of accomplishments in your career or nonprofit work. A “Thank you” and call to action inviting the board president or chair to meet with you.
How to gain an appointment to a board of directors Select the type of board to serve. Search for openings. Select the right company. Familiarize yourself with the directors. Conduct in-depth research on the board and company. Network at special events. Request an appointment. Craft a high-quality resume or CV for an interview.
Specify the organization you served, your exact title, the dates of your membership and your responsibilities. You can write a single sentence that captures the significance of your role, or you can use a few bullet points to detail your contributions.