Now that you’ve zeroed in on the size and type of board you’ll target and knowing what strengths you’ll offer them, the next step is to polish those skills. As my mom always said, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” So be patient with yourself. Things will work out.
Board doors are opening for many aspirants who would never have been considered before. Stay encouraged.
In your professional career, you have to say “yes” more often than you say “no.” Every time you say no to an opportunity, you are building your own ceiling.
Lift as you rise. You are never too early in your career to mentor, inspire and assist others.
Follow up on all of this by asking what do your colleagues think? Then, go a step further. After reflecting on your own, have some close friends and colleagues take the same audit on your behalf, imagining you in the boardroom. How do their impressions of you compare with your own?
The advice that I have for women who want to rise in their careers or start their own entrepreneurial venture is to think big. Believe in yourself and believe that you can do whatever you put your mind to. Don’t be limited by other people or yourself. Be the hardest working person in the room.
Corporate board seats are scarce and competition is fierce. But you don’t have to sit passively just wishing and hoping. There are actions you can take. In fact, the “right” initiatives can immeasurably increase your odds of landing a seat.
Don’t listen to that voice telling you “I’m not good enough.” As a matter of fact, embrace those thoughts and use them to push yourself forward. Be fearless. Whatever you do, don’t quit. The world needs you in the workforce.
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