How to build a board portfolio that works for you

Your board portfolio tells a story about your leadership journey – where you’ve been, what you value, and where you’re headed. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned director, it’s important to approach your board involvement with intention. Like any portfolio, it should be thoughtfully curated to reflect your interests, strengths, and the kind of impact you want to make.

As your career evolves, so too should your board roles. Different boards offer different challenges, time commitments, and learning opportunities. Being strategic about how you build and manage your portfolio ensures that each position contributes to your growth, aligns with your goals, and adds meaningful value.

If you’re looking to expand, refine or diversify your board portfolio, here are some important steps from our friends at Women Get On Board to consider.

1. Evaluate the evolution of your board journey

To decide if you’re ready for another commitment, first consider the size and stage of the boards you currently serve. On the board of an emerging company, the director’s role is often more hands-on, but as the company matures, you may see the commitment evolve to more of an oversight role. To better understand your responsibilities as a board member, we recommend referring to this informative guide.

2. Consider the time commitment

It is essential to understand the time commitment required for a board. Each board you serve on will go through different stages, from emerging to growth, transformation, downsizing and possibly restructuring. Each stage requires a different time commitment.

3. Understand the issues

Understand the different governance issues the company will face during your board tenure that may offer new challenges and add to your board experience. Some governance issues that you might encounter as a board member include CEO succession/development, M&A transactions, an IPO, or significant investments and disruptions in the industry.

4. Take on leadership roles

As your board journey matures, you can also diversify your board portfolio by taking on leadership roles. Consider stepping up as the chair of an existing committee, where you learn to generate dialogue and facilitate informed decision-making.

5. Consider going outside your comfort zone

The best way to diversify your board portfolio is often to venture outside your comfort zone, either by joining a new committee or by joining a board in a new industry or sector. While these opportunities may present some level of risk, they may also offer an exciting chance to expand your skillset, grow your network and open doors.

6. Consider practical issues

Don’t forget to consider other practical issues, such as the board’s total compensation, as well as the corporate calendar. If several of the corporate boards you serve share the same fiscal year-end, you may experience conflicting demands during the financial reporting period.