I know gaining access to the board will increase my chances of success. How do I get in front of them and what do I do to shine?

I’d like to have more exposure to the board. I want them to be aware of me for growth opportunities at the company and I know there’s a lot I can learn from them. What can I do to gain more access to the board?

-Senior Exec

Dear Senior Exec,

There are two parts to address so that you can achieve what you desire. First is getting an audience with the board. Second, once you are on stage, it’s about making sure you shine; that means building credibility and momentum with every interaction. Remember, not everyone who gets invited to the party can be the belle of the ball.

Let’s start with improving your access to the board. The best way to do this is to have a dialogue with the CEO to discuss your goal to gain more access and visibility. Great bosses want their people to grow so hopefully your boss will be receptive to this conversation and responsive to support you. Some things you should think about for this conversation:

• Ask for more impactful assignments. Also ask how you can help your boss. What needs to get done that’s not getting done? Are there things the CEO doesn’t love doing that you can help with? Don’t be duplicitous, people see through that. But talk about finding ways to help your boss be more efficient and effective and help you gain more experience and opportunity.
• Don’t start with volunteering to do things with the board, but ultimately, look for ways to make the CEO’s life easier and the board’s experience better. Some things might include sourcing input and doing board agendas (but don’t get pigeonholed into being an administrator). This will not get you in room, but it’s a first step. The point is to do things of service that will reflect that well on you and what you can do.

Of course, the ultimate goal is not to get access but to impress the board and build credibility. You're either gaining or losing credibility—and building or eroding trust—every day. There are several ways to make sure you are on the right side of the credibility meter.

• Say what you do and do what you say. Make commitments and fulfill them. That's what builds credibility.
• Don’t confuse action for traction. Realize that just because you’re busy, it doesn’t mean you’re making forward progress. Prioritize what’s most important to achieve the right outcomes.
• Get voted onto the team every day. Conduct yourself in a way that people will want to invite you, promote you, and would rehire you.

I’m sure you're talented and capable person. I wish you well chasing down your ambitions and dreams.

Every week I respond to a new question. Ask me your question in the comments section.