You're an IT Strategy professional. How can you make the leap to a board role?

In my opinion a board is a strategic group and works in the interest of the organisation. To be a part of the board I feel one has to clearly showcase one's talent with respect to the company's interest, should be vigilantly aware of the company's strategies and should be willing to contribute to its growth cause. Further, one should have displayed that IT strategies have been inline with the organisational strategies and that IT strategies are part and parcel of the organisation itself

Planning for a board career shall start in your midcareer level. The skills you must gain as an IT strategy professional shall include; 1- Develop Board-Level Skills: Board training, i.e your country's specific training programs which are mandatory by SEC of your country to be on board.Familiarize yourself with governance principles, regulatory requirements, and boardroom etiquette 2- Networking : With the right professionals / directors/ mentors 3- Extremely important to have financial acumen as board decision requires understanding of financial statements. 5-Build a Strong Personal Brand: Establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry by writing articles, speaking at conferences,participating in professional associations.

Enhance your business knowledge across finance, marketing, operations, and strategy to align IT with business objectives. Assume leadership roles and grasp corporate governance to prepare for board participation. Network with board members, seek mentorship, and understand your target board's needs, highlighting how your IT skills benefit business. Gain insights through advisory board roles, emphasize your IT's impact on business success, and stay updated on industry trends. Continuously seek feedback and adapt your strategy for board readiness.

Before you pursue a board role, you need to assess your readiness and suitability for such a position. Board members have different responsibilities and expectations than managers or consultants. They need to have a broad and strategic perspective, a high level of integrity and accountability, and the ability to influence and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. You also need to consider your availability, commitment, and motivation for joining a board. Do you have the time and energy to dedicate to board meetings, committees, and governance issues? Are you passionate about the mission and vision of the organization? Are you willing to learn and adapt to different board cultures and dynamics?

Board of your company or Board of another company, here I am going to outline the internal Board. To make it to the Board internally, it's an uphill task and the primary barrier is your credibility (or lack of it) with your business and the current Board. Moreover, the Board needs to see value in including an IT expert into their fold. Their perception of your great (good is not enough) work and that you have contributed significantly to the business/industry can potentially make a case. How do you know if you are ready? There is no questionnaire or checklist (many exist if you searched), but your ability to add to or challenge conventional wisdom will be a factor. Go build a brand that people recognize before you stake your claim.

This is where the second part comes in, wanting to be on the Board of another company. Your network is your net worth, heard this in one of the communities and it's true. That's how I ended up being a Board member outside my company. Your stand on various issues, opinions on technology use, credibility of deliverables promised and delivered, getting written about in publications, contributing to conferences, seminars as a speaker, panel discussion and .... all of these add up to your persona. Be visible and network without being aggressive, build respect and trust such that people are willing to recommend you as they believe you will elevate the role and their recommendations are worth it. It takes time for results, be patient !

One of the most effective ways to find board opportunities is to build your network and reputation as an IT strategy professional. You can leverage your existing contacts, such as colleagues, clients, mentors, or sponsors, to get referrals and recommendations. You can also expand your network by joining professional associations, attending events, volunteering, or participating in board development programs. These activities can help you showcase your expertise, gain exposure, and meet potential board members or recruiters. You should also update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and personal brand to highlight your IT strategy skills and achievements, as well as your board-related competencies and interests.

I personally believe that strong personal brand through networking is most important. Be committed on promises and stay visible. Include yourself in industry events and be updated in new technologies and informations. As you said- Patience is key - results take time. Cultivate trust and respect for recommendations.

Transition from IT strategy expert to board member with these strategic steps: develop business acumen gain, governance knowledge, broaden leadership experience, network with board members, enhance communication skills, seek board training, and demonstrate strategic thinking. Elevate your career and make a lasting impact at the highest levels of decision-making.