The Non-Executive Director's Guide to Dating: A Tale of Romance and Boardroom Etiquette

In the glamorous world of non-executive directors (NEDs), or the "wannabe NEDs," there lies a dating game riddled with missteps, awkward conversations, and sometimes, outright impatience. If you've ever fancied stepping into the world of NEDs without a track record, then strap in; you're in for a bumpy ride.?

Picture this: you're on a first date with a prospective company. You've dressed to impress, sporting a metaphorical tie adorned with buzzwords like 'strategy', 'insight', and 'leadership'. The menu? A delectable array of financial remunerations and daily rates.

But wait! Before you even discuss your favourite corporate governance theories or regale your date with tales of boardroom bravado, you're already talking about commitment and quoting your daily rate. Alas, dear NED, you've skipped straight to the end of the night without the proverbial foreplay!

The company across the table raises an eyebrow, places down their fork, and wonders aloud, "Who is this bold character, demanding the keys to the corporate castle without even passing the bread?"

Let's face it, a 'want to be' NED charging in with pay demands is like proposing marriage before the starters have arrived. It's a faux pas of corporate proportions. One must first woo the company, engage in delightful banter about risk management, dance through due diligence, and perhaps, just perhaps, share a lingering glance over the balance sheet.

But fear not! For the inexperienced NED, here are some dating tips that just might save the evening:

1. **The First Impression**: Introduce yourself with grace and humility. Talk about your experience, share your insights, but don't show them the ring just yet.

2. **The Intellectual Tango**: Engage in meaningful conversation. Discuss your vision, challenge their ideas, but be patient. The dance floor of negotiation takes two.

3. **The Flirtation of Adding Value**: Show them what you can do. Contribute, provide guidance, and make them think, "We can't possibly do without this person."

4. **The Proposal**: Only after you've dazzled them with your intellectual charm, may you venture into the realm of remuneration. Now's the time to produce the ring, or in this case, your invoice.

Dear 'wannabe' NEDs, the boardroom is not a place for a reckless whirlwind romance. It's a place for a slow, seductive dance where the rhythm of strategy, oversight, and independence takes the lead.

So the next time you find yourself seated across from a prospective company, remember to enjoy the meal, savour the wine, and appreciate the dance. After all, as they say in love and non-executive directorships, the journey is just as important as the destination.?

???? #CorporateRomance