Get on Board

In this episode, Fiona Hathorn joins me and we talk about the importance of boards in organisations, and how becoming a board member could enhance your career. Fiona shares the benefits of serving on a board, whether it is a commercial or community-based organisation, and how you might get started.

Fiona is CEO of Women on Boards UK and has several board positions. Fiona launched Women on Boards in 2012 to support women, and men, make the right connections and career choices to get to board level within their own company or to take on a non-executive board role. Since its launch, Women on Boards has supported over 1800 women and a number of men get onto boards.

Key Takeaways

• Serving on a board is a great way to further or enhance your career
• Many skills you have developed are transferable and will help you fulfil the duties of a board member
• Serving on a board is ultimately about conformance and performance. Which is your strong skillset?
• Serving on a board can help you build your future and grow several additional skills
• Boards want to understand what value you can add. Know who you are and what you do
• Networking outside of your 'box' is a large part of success
• There are no certification requirements to serve on a board, and there are many resources available to help you
• Serving as a board member is not limited to commercial organisations. Your local charities and community organisations need help and guidance too

Resources 

Fiona recommends the following resources to learn more:

• The Wates Report - improving corporate governance standards
• Three Great Reasons to Consider a Board Role
• The Seven Reasons Why Being a Director is Good for Your Career
• Are You Ready for the Boardroom?
• Get on Board workshops

Connect with Fiona

Listeners can learn more about and connect with Fiona by visiting her LinkedIn page.