A Strong Online Presence is the First Step to the Boardroom — Anouk Pappers
Securing a seat on a board of directors marks a significant milestone in your professional journey. It’s not just another role; it’s a chance to shape an organization’s strategy and contribute to its success. As you contemplate this transition, it’s crucial to approach it with clarity and purpose.
An understanding of the current board landscape is important. The Spencer Stuart 2024 S&P 500 New Director & Diversity Snapshot reveals that “about a third (34%) of the class of 2024 are first-time directors.” Additionally, “the proportion of next-gen new directors (those aged 50 or under) increased after a sharp drop in 2023.” These trends indicate a growing openness to fresh perspectives, making it prime time for aspiring candidates to position themselves effectively.
How do you begin? McKinsey’s Starting your board journey: Six steps to guide director hopefuls identifies the first step as understanding the role of a board member and clarifying your objectives. The second step is raising your visibility: “Building your profile and broadening your network can benefit any professional, but these moves are particularly important for those wishing to be considered for a seat on a corporate board.”
Start by making sure that your online presence accurately represents how you want others to perceive you. My favorite one-liner, and the title of our latest book, which I mention in nearly every presentation, is “You Are Who Google Says You Are.” The Boardlist’s 5 Ways to Strategically Position Yourself for the Boardroom underscores this importance for those seeking a board seat: “You will be Googled, so ensure your personal brand shines.” Keep in mind that the information that a prospective board finds can play a pivotal role in your candidacy.
Have you clearly articulated your unique value proposition? These are the characteristics that set you apart from other candidates. Highlight your skills, experiences, and what you bring to a board. Reflect on your professional journey, emphasizing accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership abilities and strategic thinking. Aside from updating your online profiles, write and publish articles that showcase your insights and expertise. This will enhance your credibility and visibility within your industry.
Networking is an important next part of your journey. Korn Ferry’s report 5 Strategies for Gaining a Board Seat states that “Seventy percent of all board appointments made every year are done through networking, not through executive search firms.” Building relationships with individuals who are already serving on boards can enhance your prospects. You need to ensure they have the information to advocate for you effectively and online proof points are key.
Once you’ve begun strengthening your online presence, you should focus on your board bio and resume. Not before. Your documents will be reviewed when you are up for consideration and decision-makers often turn to the Internet to learn more about potential candidates. Curating your digital persona takes time so that is your first priority.
Your journey toward a board seat requires strategic planning and a clear understanding of what boards seek. Be consistent in your narrative. By starting with a strong online presence you create opportunities that can propel you forward. Embrace this process and let your board journey begin.
A brand anthropologist who has been storytelling for brands since 2002, Anouk Pappers has interviewed over 1,000 CEOs, CMOs and business owners and published 15 books. Anouk’s primary focus is on working with women and diverse leaders to define their personal brands and pinpoint their narrative. Her company, Signitt, enables people to align their online presence with their personal brand. This positions them for their next professional goal, including board seats, promotions, client acquisitions, investor relations, and career transitions.
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