As a CEO or company president (or both), you operate in the busy, often unpredictable, rapid-growth realm of the mid-market. You bring your best self to the workplace each day and contribute the the lion’s share of your energy, time, and passion to the organization you care about the most: your own. Given these demands, many company leaders simply feel maxed out, to put it mildly.
So if you’re asked to join the board of a non-profit or corporation, your first response might be, “I wish I could, but it is not not a priority for me right now.” Yet, you have noticed that some of the most respected CEOs with the widest and highest levels of influence often have a long list of board responsibilities reflected in their profiles.
Why do they take on such additional responsibilities?
Here are a few reasons why they do. After reading them, you may rethink your priorities, and perhaps even proactively seek a board seat when an opportunity opens in your network.
Broad Experience Matters
Theodore Roosevelt famously criticized those who dedicate their entire lives to one business endeavor, sacrificing all other forms of curiosity, wisdom, and interdisciplinary engagement. He called such people “dull.” But the reality can be worse—focusing on only one thing for years at a time cuts us off from the world and limits our growth and credibility. Expand your knowledge and you’ll travel farther, both as a CEO and as a person.
Solving New Problems Is Beneficial
Even if you think your responsibilities as a CEO have shown you every imaginable leadership challenge, joining a board exposes you to a wider range of unique personalities, different markets, diverse corners of our culture, and new problems to tackle. Adding fresh air and oxygen to your daily and yearly rounds enhances the depth of your experience, and is good for your company and your employees.
More Exposure Brings More Opportunities Your Way
Board responsibilities add an element of polish to any CEO’s resume. Non-profit and corporate board positions demonstrate your ambition and your values, setting you apart from other business leaders. This exposes your company and your career to new corners of the market.
Expanding Your Network
Joining a board brings you in contact with new people. That’s a given. But making contributions to the growth and direction of the organization can leave a lasting impression. Your board position may not last forever, but while you occupy the role you will have regular opportunities to make a meaningful difference for a community of organization members and stakeholders. Board participation brings connections with others, but more significantly it creates a legacy that will continue to bring you associations with people you otherwise would not have met.
For more on resources to join a board of directors—as well as reasons to consider the option—email us at boardconnection@ceoconnection.com. Our thriving community of CEOs connect with one another during collaborative, high-energy seminars, dinners, and speaking events throughout the year. Be a guest or become member and you will gain access to opportunities that will grow your business and expand your personal portfolio as a mid-market leader.