What is the time commitment for being a board member?

When I'm asked this question, I'm always tempted to ask how long is a piece of string..., but that isn't a constructive response, so let me attempt to do better.?

Firstly, each role will require a different amount of time. For example, a charity typically asks for less time commitment from their trustees, sometimes as little as four days a year. Whereas other roles, such as an NHS non-exec board member, will ask for a more significant commitment, closer to 4 days a month. There is typically a relationship between the level of "responsibility", compensation and time commitment. The greater the responsibility and remuneration, the more is generally expected from you. I put responsibility in brackets as some organisations' societal roles are seen as having more significant levels of impact. For example, the quality of an NHS trust governance can mean life or death for countless people.?

Secondly, how much time you need to commit as a board member will change based on your role or roles on a board. For example, a board chair will likely invest significantly more time into the role. Many boards also have several subcommittees; the more subcommittees you sit on, the more time it takes. Also, depending on the board's needs, the time commitments of each subcommittee may vary in comparison to each other. Additionally, as the organisation evolves, the demands of different committees will also change to adapt.?

Essentially, there isn't an easy answer to the question. However, here is some advice which might be helpful to consider:

1. Before taking on a board role, ask questions about the time commitment. Ask the recruiter about it and if possible, an existing board member.

2. Take into account what time of the day meetings typically occur. How will this impact your current working arrangements if meetings frequently happen during the day?

3. Does the board meet online or in person? Is it a mix? And if it is a mix, what does the balance look like? Will this likely change over time, as the further we get away from lockdowns, the greater the push by some boards to meet in person again.?

4. How much time will it take you to prepare for meetings? The NHS is known for having unending board papers, with more than 100 pages of detail to read. In contrast, other organisations will have much more concise information being presented. Preparation time is even more important than the meeting itself, so this should be considered properly.?

5. Will the board also have strategy/away days? All good boards have this as part of their annual meeting plans, and some have more than one.?

6. Are board meetings in the same city you live in? If it's far away, then will you need to travel the night before and stay in accommodation? Typically, the organisation will cover these expenses, but do you have the time to do this??

7. How long are board and committee meetings? Will they be two hours or closer to four?

8. How long are the standard terms of board membership? Most boards expect you to be a member for three years with the ability for membership to be renewed once or twice. However, what will your life look like three years from now? Will this role fit with the rest of your life and your career??

The last thing to consider is the job spec. Most well-written board role specs will spell out what they think the time commitment is. They are typically pretty accurate, or at least they aren't attempting to be misleading. It is helpful to remember that the number of days stated on the job spec typically represents the number of meetings in a year rather than the anticipated preparation time.?

Although board roles usually pay better per hour than most 9-5s, they are far from passive forms of income. They do require a meaningful commitment in terms of your time, energy and skill set to do a good job, and doing a good job will have a life-changing impact on those looking to the board for governance.?