How to attain board membership in seven steps
The board of directors is at the very top of corporate management. Both established executives and aspiring professionals often strive to get a seat at the table — but the path to the board can feel unclear. Research such as the PwC Annual Corporate Directors Survey shows that financial acumen, industry knowledge and diverse perspectives are among the most sought-after qualities of today’s board members.
While these skills are critical, it is equally important to understand the process of becoming a board member. With the right preparation, visibility and network, you can qualify to serve on the board of a company, nonprofit organization or school.
In this guide, Dess Digital Meetings provides an overview:
- How candidates are typically invited or appointed to the board
- The most important qualifications companies are looking for
- The differences between corporate, non-profit and school boards
- How to get started if you have little or no board experience
- What to expect once you have secured a seat on the board
How do you become a member of the Board?
Board membership often starts with establishing credibility in your field. If your expertise aligns with the needs of an organization, you’re a natural candidate when a position becomes available. Boards typically look for candidates who demonstrate leadership, integrity and the ability to build strong professional relationships.
The process may consist of expressing interest, presenting your background and interviewing to ensure you align with the board’s mission and strategy. For those who are selected, board membership is both an opportunity and a responsibility to help shape the future of an organization.
Qualifications you need to become a board member
Although there are no uniform requirements for board membership, most organizations look for the following criteria:
- Professional expertise: finance, governance, legal, strategy, fundraising or industry-specific knowledge.
- Leadership experience: management roles, committee work or advisory roles.
- Strategic mindset: The ability to make long-term plans and decisions.
- Collaboration and communication: Strong interpersonal skills to facilitate productive board discussions.
- Commitment and availability: Board members need time, focus and commitment beyond meetings.
How to become a board member
Different boards have different expectations. Here you can find out how to prepare for each path:
Company board
Company boards are highly competitive. Here’s how to improve your chances:
- Build experience at management level and credibility in the industry.
- Gain experience on supervisory boards or advisory boards, including at the level of non-profit organizations or start-ups.
- Expand your network — many opportunities come from referrals.
- Raise your profile by speaking at events or publishing thought leadership.
- Learn the best practices of business leadership.
- Work with companies that specialize in board appointments.
- Demonstrate how your expertise meets the strategic needs of the company.
Non-profit board
Non-profit board members value passion and commitment to their role. This is how you position yourself:
- Find a cause that you really care about.
- Show your commitment by volunteering or donating.
- Acquire relevant skills in fundraising, finance or administration.
- Become a member of committees (finance, development or program committee) as a stepping stone.
- Apply through formal nomination or application processes.
- Be prepared to make a financial contribution if required.
School Board
School boards are unique in that they usually have to be elected. To be successful, you must:
Get involved in your community.
Canvass for votes by showing your commitment to education and local needs.
How to become a board member without experience
Even entry-level professionals can earn a seat on the board by:
- Developing specialized knowledge (e.g. technology, AI, innovation).
- Building connections with current board members.
- Increase visibility through speaking, writing or networking.
- Applying to smaller or emerging boards where new perspectives are valued.
Becoming a board member is just the beginning
Becoming a board member is an important milestone, but the real work begins afterwards. Successful board members remain committed, collaborative and forward-thinking. They bring insights that contribute to strong leadership and better decision-making.
At Dess Digital Meetings, we help boards stay organized, efficient and future-ready by providing them with secure digital platforms that simplify board management. Because as a board member, you should be focused on strategy and impact — not paperwork and admin.
