Cracking the Code: How to Get the Most from Board Search Consultants

For over 15 years, I’ve worked as a board search consultant, placing Chairs, Non-Executive Directors (NEDs), Advisory Board Members, and Committee Members across industries and business types. During this time, I’ve noticed a recurring pattern—aspiring board members often misunderstand how to maximise their interactions with board search consultants. If you’re serious about landing a board role, this article is for you.

Here’s how to approach board search consultants effectively, stand out from the crowd, and set yourself up for success.

1. Get Your House in Order First

Before you even consider reaching out to a board search consultant, make sure you’re ready. This means:

• Have the Right Credentials: A strong board resume, evidence of relevant experience, and (ideally) formal governance training, such as the AICD’s Company Directors Course.
• Understand the Landscape: Know the difference between a Non-Executive Director and an Advisory Board Member. Research the process of securing board seats and develop a clear understanding of boardroom responsibilities.
• Do Your Homework: The internet is awash with resources on board governance and career planning. Don’t waste valuable time in a meeting asking basic questions you could have researched yourself.

2. Timing is Everything

Board search consultants aren’t career coaches—they’re talent scouts for top-tier organisations. The right time to approach them is:

• When You Have Runs on the Board: Ideally, you should already have a couple of board appointments under your belt. This demonstrates your capability and experience.
• When You’re On Message: If you’re transitioning to a board career, ensure your pitch is clear and compelling. Know what industries or roles you’re targeting and why you’re the right fit.

3. Be Prepared to Impress

When you secure a meeting with a board search consultant, treat it as an audition:

• Know Your Audience: Research the consultant. Understand the types of roles they recruit for, their client base, and their professional history.
• Bring Your A-Game: Appear professional, articulate your value succinctly, and demonstrate confidence without arrogance.
• Make a Lasting Impression: Even if there’s no immediate opportunity, aim to leave a positive impression. Building rapport can lead to future opportunities.

4. Understand the Consultant’s Perspective

Board search consultants operate in a highly judgmental environment. They are constantly assessing candidates on:

• Professionalism: How you present yourself, communicate, and interact.
• Value Alignment: Whether you meet the needs of their clients and bring something unique to the table.
• Future Potential: Consultants are relationship builders, so they’ll consider whether you’re someone they’d want to work with in the future.

Recognise that every interaction with a consultant is an opportunity to showcase your suitability—not just for one role, but for your broader board career aspirations.

5. Build Relationships, Not Transactions

Establishing rapport with a board search consultant is a long game:

• Be a Giver, Not a Taker: Share insights, refer colleagues, or express genuine interest in their work. This helps create a mutually beneficial relationship.
• Stay in Touch: Even if a meeting doesn’t lead to immediate opportunities, find appropriate ways to maintain the connection. Send updates on your career, congratulate them on notable placements, or reach out periodically to stay top of mind.

6. Avoid Common Pitfalls

Many aspiring board members make avoidable mistakes. Here’s what not to do:

• Underprepared Meetings: Showing up without understanding the consultant’s focus or the types of roles they recruit for.
• Unpolished Resumes: Submitting a CV that doesn’t highlight governance experience or align with boardroom expectations.
• Wasting Time: Using meetings to discuss irrelevant topics or asking basic questions instead of pitching yourself as a serious candidate.

7. Think Beyond the Immediate Role

Even if there’s no role available at the time, every meeting with a board search consultant is an opportunity to position yourself for future success:

• Focus on Long-Term Goals: View the interaction as part of your broader board career strategy.
• Stay Memorable: Make an impression that ensures you’ll be top of mind when the right opportunity arises.

The Bottom Line

Working with board search consultants can be a powerful tool in your journey to the boardroom, but only if you approach it strategically. Be prepared, professional, and intentional. Understand the consultant’s role, bring your A-game, and focus on building long-term relationships that can open doors to future opportunities.

Ready to Elevate Your Board Career? Let’s Talk If you’re looking to refine your approach, develop a standout board resume, or create a long-term board career strategy, book a session with me. Together, we’ll ensure you’re ready to impress the industry’s top board search consultants. Visit calendly.com/kyliehammond/tigerboards to schedule a complimentary session.

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