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Gain leadership experience on a non-profit board

Sun 26 February 2012

, Women Advance, LEAP redactie

What options do you have when you’re feeling stuck at work?  Ann Daly, the executive coach behind Women Advance, hears from a lot of women they can’t find a way to make the leap from manager to leader. They find themselves in a catch-22: they can’t get promoted without leadership experience, but they have no opportunity to obtain that experience. One of the ways that will give them the needed experience is joining a non-profit board.

Because non-profit boards are often operating well below capacity an aspiring leader can step in and make an impact. And it’s mutually-rewarding. Not only are you serving your community and supporting a cause that you are passionate about, board membership often also allows you opportunities that you might not otherwise get. Like gaining decision-making experience at a strategic level, becoming an influencer in your community, expanding your network, boosting your resume and  managing change. And it gives you the opportunity to broaden and strengthen your functional skill sets, including financial, human resource and project management, strategic planning and developing fundraising and revenue streams.

So, how do you go about joining a board? Start by identifying an area you’re passionate about.  Once you define your interest do an internet search for compatible organizations in your area. Reach out to the organizations and meet with their board members and executive directors. Boards come in many shapes and sizes, so it’s very important to find the right fit. Also, be clear about specific board expectations and responsibilities. Ask to see a board handbook.