Why Am I On This Board?

There comes a time when the end of your board term is approaching and you need to assess whether to stay or go.

• What legacy will you leave for your individual directorships?
• How many terms should you complete?
• How do you plan your exit?
• How does each board fit with your objective to build a portfolio career?
• What drives you as a director?
• What are the characteristics of a high-performing board?

Then there are these further questions you may wish to ask:

Often it comes down to the dynamic within the room and among the other directors as the work gets done.

• Is it an individualistic board or a collective board?
• How does your style fit on this continuum?

If you are thinking of stepping away, then plan your exit or 'phasing down' stage to ensure your reputation remains positive and professional.

RELATED ARTICLES on thetalentadvisors.com

DIRECTOR JOURNEY ESSENTIALS Mentor-Coach Conversation: thought pieces and reading lists that support my board coaching sessions where we discuss the why, how and what of director capability and the director journey for a place in the boardroom.

COMPETING FOR DIRECTORSHIPS Be more competitive when searching for directorships: guidance and advice on finding board roles in a competitive market. Four 1:1 coach-mentor sessions to assist you be short-listed more often.

THE DIRECTOR INTERVIEW Overview of Coach-Mentor Session for a Board Interview. Aspiring directors often need to counter pre-existing preferences and shift the focus from exact experience to transferable skills or potential. Discover more about our coaching service.

EVERY EXECUTIVE NEEDS A TRUSTED SOUNDING BOARD

Most executives understand that the higher they are, the more difficult it is to talk about their real issues or concerns – and to do so free from the weight of company expectations. It is even harder to find effective and neutral listeners. Whether the objective is to be more effective in a role, to assess next-level strategies or contribute to a board, it helps to have trusted guidance.

“How do I choose a mentor-coach and what should I look for?" is a natural question. Look for someone who is compatible, but has enough of a contrast to bring new perspectives. Someone who has the expertise you would need to work through the 'how' and the 'why'; that you could trust and respect. You would want a good listener and someone who has your interests at heart to the extent that they will encourage a frank dialogue on both sides and support you through the changes that will need to be made.”- Dianne Jacobs

This article is part of our Insights For Action series. Join the mailing list to receive this and more.

Discover how to get On Boards or Next Level

With a range of clients nationally and internationally, we work 1:1 or together; in person or virtually. We are based in Melbourne, Australia. Some time zones are friendlier than others, but that’s ok as we can always find a time that is mutually convenient.