The Case for a Personal Board of Directors

This week, I am excited to turn over the newsletter to my colleague Laura Demuth, MSN, NP-BC, EMBA . Laura is an NP who has pursued a non-traditional career path and I consider her to be an influential voice in the health tech space.

Laura recently wrote a newsletter article on the importance of a "Personal Board of Directors." I love this concept and have written previously about the importance of "kitchen cabinet" advisors. Having people in your life who are not professionally connected but care about you are a person is incredibly important. Laura graciously allowed me to repost her newsletter here to share with you. Be sure to check out Laura's Substack as her newsletter is an excellent blend of career advice, job listings, and other helpful resources.

I’m Laura Demuth — a board-certified nurse practitioner who traded in the clinic for the health-tech world almost a decade ago, and have never looked back.

Whether transitioning to a new specialty, exploring opportunities outside of traditional clinical practice, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures, the journey can be full of uncertainties and challenges. Amidst all the ambiguity, there exists an idea of support and guidance that is gaining traction - the personal board of directors.

We are somewhat familiar with the concept of a board of directors in corporate or startup organizations. A corporate board of directors exists to provide governance, strategic direction, and oversight to ensure an organization's success. They set strategy, manage risk, hire and oversee executive leadership, represent stakeholder interests, and promote transparency and accountability. They are trusted advisors and mentors with the best interests of the organization in mind. Wouldn’t it be great to have a personal board of directors who has the best interests of YOU in mind?

The Career Pivot Conundrum

Healthcare clinicians, with their specialized skills and expertise, may find themselves at a crossroads, contemplating a shift in their career trajectory. Perhaps they are hungry for new challenges, seek greater work-life balance, or aspire to make a broader impact beyond the confines of traditional clinical practice settings. However, the prospect of embarking on a career pivot can be daunting.

The Role of a Personal Board in Career Pivots

A personal board of directors can be a lifeline — offering guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way. Here's how:

1. Navigating Uncertainty: Transitioning to a new career path can feel like stepping into the unknown. The mentor on your personal board can offer invaluable guidance, drawing from their own experiences and helping you navigate the uncertainties with clarity and confidence.

2. Exploring Opportunities: The connector on your board can open doors to new opportunities, whether it's networking events, job openings, or introductions to key players in your desired field. Their expansive network can help you explore various paths and find the right fit for your skills and aspirations.

3. Building Confidence: Making a career pivot requires courage and self-belief. The cheerleader on your personal board provides unwavering support, bolstering your confidence and resilience in the face of challenges and setbacks.

4. Challenging Assumptions: The challenger on your board pushes you to question your assumptions and stretch beyond your comfort zone. Their constructive feedback and tough questions encourage growth and innovation, helping you adapt to new roles and responsibilities.

5. Staying Grounded: Amidst the whirlwind of change, it's essential to have a friend on your personal board who knows you intimately and provides a sense of grounding and perspective. Their friendship and camaraderie offer solace and reassurance during times of uncertainty.

Upcoming Event: Beyond the Clinic

Join us for our inaugural webinar "Money Matters: A Financial Q&A for Healthcare Providers" presented by White Coats of the Round Table. This event will provide opportunities to discuss all questions related to personal finance as a healthcare provider. We want this event to be focused on you! Make sure to bring any and all questions regarding finances and we will tackle them.

Date: August 8th at 12pm ET

Register HERE

We look forward to seeing you there!