Showcasing Your Expertise on LinkedIn

I was having a conversation this week with someone who was discussing her work around board diversity over a decade ago. She mentioned that, at that time, the requirements being considered were often limiting, such as prior board experience or experience as a public company CEO. She was relieved when I shared that today’s boardroom is looking for a wealth of experiences and often for people who are still operating, which makes sense, given how challenging today’s operating environment can be.?

This is good news for opportunity. And it requires those interested in board service to continue to highlight strengths in ways that will resonate with those seeking new board members. One thing that can be challenging is to represent your background and qualifications fully in ways encompassing all the experience you have amassed that could benefit a board.?

My co-founder, Fiona Tang has had the benefit of working with thousands of CEOs, board members, and women seeking board opportunities. She put together a set of questions and a yes - Mad Lib! - to help enable those seeking a board seat to illustrate fully their competencies. She guides a lot of the board seekers specifically on how to bolster their LinkedIn profile, which is a place where many people start their research.?

Here’s what Fiona has put together:?

The goal is to help board-builders understand the breadth/depth of experience in a way that’s both glanceable and searchable. We’re aiming for an authentic summary of your expertise. Quantify the scale you’ve led. Use ticker symbols.?

• In the About section, summarize the leadership themes of your experienceWhat are you passionate about when it comes to leading and your areas of expertise?What are the highlights of your leadership roles and business scaling you’ve done???
• Who are the customers you’ve worked with? Across which industries?ConsumersSMBsB2B/EnterpriseGovernments
• Can you quantify the scope of the P&L or budget you’ve overseen?Where was it when you started in that role, and where is it now?
• What about some business leadership experiences to highlight?M&A?Digital transformation?Turnaround?Establishing new business lines?
• International experience?Which markets??Growth existing markets or expansion into new ones?Scope of oversight?
• Personal additions you feel comfortable sharing??Causes you’re passionate aboutRecognition, speaking, pressExtracurriculars (hobbies, volunteer work, etc.)

Mad Lib your About Section

I am a [insert leadership brand, e.g., customer-focused/product-driven/etc.] leader with [insert number] years of experience. I've led [insert functions/business units] of [insert scope] size and [insert business growth highlights].

• [Insert quantifiable accomplishment highlight #1, even if anonymized]
• [Insert quantifiable accomplishment highlight #2, even if anonymized]
• [Insert quantifiable accomplishment highlight #3, even if anonymized]

Updating your LinkedIn is essential and easier than updating a resume or a board bio. It also goes a long way toward enhancing your visibility.