Board Shorts Podcast

We're discussing a critical topic for Aspiring and emerging Board Members: the fundamental mindset shifts from being a high-achieving executive to an effective Board Member. If you're ready to make a real impact at the governance level, this episode is for you.

We explore why the "doing" or operational mindset, so valuable in executive roles, can actually hinder your contribution as a Board Member. And we talk about how the Director Mindset, can help you to shift your focus from day-to-day execution to strategic oversight, long-term sustainability, and robust governance.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The clear distinctions between executive and Board Member thinking.
• How to cultivate a strategic governance mindset.
• The art of asking insightful questions that drive real value.
• The importance of fiduciary duties and high-level contributions.
• Strategies for effectively letting go of operational control and building trust.
• Practical tips for making this shift, like mastering your Board pack and developing your "Boardroom voice."

Stop dreaming and start leading with confidence. This complete transformation is crucial for impactful board service.

Ready to accelerate your board journey? Explore our Board Readiness Bundle for the ultimate roadmap to landing and excelling in your board role: getonboardaustralia.com.au/bundle

Links Mentioned in this Episode

Podcast: Asking Better Questions in the Boardroom with master questioner Greg Bustin

Writing Better Board Papers: Julie Garland McLellan

Other Useful Resources

Article: How to Prepare for a Board Meeting

Article: Developing Your Boardroom Presence

If you have a question or a topic that you'd like covered in a future episode, please fill out our short online survey.

Earlier this month (May 2025), BoardPro hosted a webinar on 'Aligning Governance and Management' with Giselle McLachlan, Fiona McKenzie, and I, and the response was incredible. The questions flooded in – a testament to how vital and shared this issue is across Boards and country boundaries.

We simply couldn't get to all the questions in the time we had in the webinar, so I invited Giselle and Fiona onto the Board Shorts Podcast for a special Q&A episode, answering all of those questions we couldn't get to in the webinar. If you haven't seen the webinar yet, I encourage you to watch. Some of the things we talk about mention diagrams from the webinar, so please follow that link to watch the replay and download the slides. You can also find out more about Giselle and Fiona from that webinar, and there are links below to connect with them as well.

Get ready for a fast-paced, no-nonsense conversation where we tackle your burning questions about strengthening collaboration between Boards and Management. We unpack the nuances of role clarity, communication strategies, and how to forge that all-important shared purpose. In this episode, we answer questions about navigating tricky situations with founders, avoiding a 'Board of two' scenario, what to do if a Chair disagrees with the Board, and maintaining a healthy Board lifecycle.

If you're a Board Member, an Executive, or anyone working to bridge the gap between governance and operations, this episode is packed with the practical insights you need. Let's get started!

BoardPro Webinar 'Aligning Governance and Management'

Connect with Giselle

Grounded Governance

LinkedIn

Connect with Fiona

Resolving Matters

LinkedIn

Email: Fiona[at]resolvingmatters[dot]com[dot]au

Thanks to our sponsor, BoardPro. Sign up for a free 30-day trial at boardpro.com/boardshorts and then proceed with an order to receive 20% off your first-year subscription on any plan. Use the promo code boardshorts – all one word, lowercase – to get that 20% off your first year on any plan.

If you have a question or a topic that you'd like covered in a future episode, please fill out our short online survey.

I'm so excited to share this conversation with you! I've found a kindred spirit in Dr. Keith Dorsey, who, like me, is dedicated to helping people navigate the often-uncharted territory of embarking on a board career.

Dr. Keith D. Dorsey is an executive coach, author, and expert in leadership development and corporate governance. With over 25 years of experience, Keith is passionate about helping senior leaders secure seats at the corporate boardroom table. His new book, The Boardroom Journey: Practical Guidance for Women to Secure a Seat at the Table, offers actionable strategies for aspiring board members and independent directors seeking their next board seat.

In this episode, we tackle some of the most pressing questions for anyone considering a board role: How do you really know you're ready? What's the best way to take that first step, and what kind of support system do you need to succeed? Dr. Dorsey brings a unique perspective to these questions, drawing from his extensive experience and his doctoral research.

Keith and I explore the five essential types of capital needed for your board journey – with a special focus on the often-underestimated "commitment capital." We also delve into the vital roles of self-belief and perseverance, and uncover practical strategies for finding and leveraging mentors, sponsors, and allies.

Plus, for those who are eager to prepare for the boardroom but aren't quite ready to launch their search, Dr. Dorsey shares actionable steps you can take right now to build your skills and readiness.

Specifically, in this episode, we discuss:

• How you know - or get to know - that you're ready for Board service.
• The first step you should take on your Board career journey.
• The five types of Capital required for your Board journey.
• Why self-belief and perseverance are so important for a Board journey.
• How you can best find and use mentors, sponsors, and allies to support your Board aspirations.
• What are the steps or actions that you can take now to skill-up for the Boardroom (particularly if you're not quite ready to start your Board journey but it is on your horizon)?

Get ready for an insightful and empowering conversation that will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to take control of your board career journey.

Dr Keith's Website: boardroomjourney.com

Book: The Boardroom Journey: Practical Guidance for Women to Secure a Seat at the Table

Program: Build Your Board Resume (open for enrolment until Sunday, 18 May 2025)

Course: Break into the Boardroom (self-paced and always open for enrolment)

If you have a question or a topic that you'd like covered in a future episode, please fill out our short online survey.

Are you being talked about in the rooms you're not in? I chat with LinkedIn branding expert Carol Kaemmerer about turning quiet credibility into commanding presence to land board roles. Discover why who knows you matters most and how to become authentically visible and influential, even as an introvert. Carol shares practical steps to troubleshoot your visibility, leverage LinkedIn effectively, and define the three key things you want to be known for.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding executive influence and why professional visibility is crucial for aspiring Board Members.
• Troubleshooting whether you have a visibility or influence issue.
• Actionable steps to boost your influence and visibility.
• Leveraging your LinkedIn profile for effective communication.
• Strategies for introverts to become authentically visible.
• Defining your "3 things" to be remembered for.
• Carol's framework for visibility and influence: Clarity of Position, Being Seen in the Right Places, and Strategic Amplification (Consistency, Clarity, Conviction).

Learn more: Carol's 'Executive Influence Revolution' program starts May 12 (US time). Visit https://carolkaemmerer.net

• Executive Influence Revolution
• Connect with Carol on LinkedIn

I'm exploring a crucial aspect of your Board search that goes far beyond simply responding to job advertisements: how to strategically use your Board Resume to proactively open doors to the Boardroom.

We often focus on crafting that perfect Board Resume, investing time and energy to showcase our unique value. But what happens after it's written? Are you just waiting for the ideal Board advertisement to land in your inbox?

The reality is, many desirable Board positions, especially paid ones, are never publicly advertised.

This episode will equip you with the understanding and actionable steps to leverage your strategic Board Resume as a powerful tool in your overall Board search strategy. I share why it's more than just a CV and how it can become your secret weapon in navigating the often-unseen pathways to Board appointments.

In this episode, I cover:

• Why waiting for Board advertisements is a limited strategy: I discuss why many Boards don't advertise and the opportunities you might be missing.
• The power of a "strategic" Board Resume: I revisit what makes a Board Resume different from a traditional CV – its focus on your Board story, value proposition, and strategic thinking.
• Key ways to actively use your Board Resume beyond applications:
• Engaging your network for feedback and introductions: Learn how to use your resume as a conversation starter and a tool to facilitate connections.
• Following up with new contacts: Discover how your Board Resume can be a more impactful follow-up than a business card in your Board journey.
• Connecting with board search firms: Understand how to approach search firms with your targeted resume and position yourself for relevant opportunities.
• The crucial preamble when sharing your resume: I emphasise the importance of clearly stating your Board goals, motivations, and unique value proposition when reaching out.
• The importance of regular updates and avoiding "smarmy salesperson" syndrome: I discuss how to keep your resume relevant and use it strategically without overdoing it.
• Shifting your mindset from passive applicant to proactive seeker: I encourage you to take control of your board career by actively using your resume.

Key Takeaway:

Your Board Resume is a dynamic marketing document that can be a powerful catalyst for conversations and connections that lead to Board opportunities, far beyond the limitations of responding to advertisements.

Action Steps:

1. Review your Board Resume: Does it clearly articulate your Board Story and Unique Board Value Proposition? (Refer back to Episodes 102, 103, and 110-113 if needed).
2. Identify key individuals in your network: Who aligns with your board goals and could offer valuable feedback or connections?
3. Strategically reach out: Use your Board Resume as a prompt for conversations, clearly stating your aspirations and value.
4. Engage with board search firms: Research relevant firms and make targeted introductions.
5. Register for the "Crafting a Winning Board Resume" webinar to gain further in-depth guidance on writing your Board Resume. Read more and register here.

Links and Resources:

• Episode 102: Setting Your Board Goal
• Episode 103: Understanding Your Unique Board Value Proposition
• Episode 110: Board Resumes: Myths vs. Reality
• Episode 111: The Key Elements of a Winning Board Resume
• Episode 112: Five Board Resume Mistakes you Might be Making
• Episode 113: Telling Your Board Story through your Board Resume
• More Articles and Podcasts: Board Resumes
• Course: Build Your Board Resume
• Board Resume Writing Service
• Course: Break into the Boardroom

If you have a question or a topic that you'd like covered in a future episode, please fill out our short online survey.

Ready to craft a Board Resume that truly tells your story?

This episode is your roadmap to creating a compelling narrative that will grab a Board recruiter's attention. The episode dives deep into how your Unique Board Value Proposition should shine through your Board Resume, transforming it from a list of achievements into a powerful story about the value you bring.

Ever wondered what your "Board Story" actually is? This episode breaks it down for you, explaining how it's a potent combination of your:

• Board Goal: The specific type of Board you're aiming for.
• Unique Board Value Proposition: What makes you stand out and desirable to that Board.
• Competitive Posture: How you position yourself against other candidates.

I guide you through why simply listing your professional experience isn't enough. You'll learn how to strategically use key sections of your Board Resume, particularly your introduction and professional career history (or Board history), to clearly communicate your Board Story.

Imagine a recruiter instantly understanding where you want to go and what you offer, without having to dig through pages of information. This episode makes that vision a reality.

You'll learn how to:

• Craft a powerful introduction that immediately highlights your Board-level expertise.
• Transform vague job descriptions into compelling key achievements that demonstrate your impact on business, strategy, and finances.
• Ensure your entire resume reinforces your unique Board value proposition.

Don't waste any more time sending out resumes that don't effectively tell your story. Learn how to make your board resume your most powerful tool in landing your dream Board role.

Join the free and live webinar on Crafting a Winning Board Resume: getonboardaustralia.com.au/boardresumewebinar

• Episode 102: Setting Your Board Goal
• Episode 103: Understanding Your Unique Board Value Proposition
• More Articles and Podcasts: Board Resumes
• Program: Build Your Board Resume
• Board Resume Writing Service
• Course: Break into the Boardroom

If you have a question or a topic that you'd like covered in a future episode, please fill out our short online survey.

Your Board Resume is a strategic marketing document, not a professional autobiography. In this episode, we dive into the common mistake of overloading your Resume with information. Many Board hopefuls try to include everything, thinking it will impress. Instead, it overwhelms the reader and buries your key information.

We'll explore this mistake and others:

• Seeing Your Resume as a Comprehensive Professional Autobiography
• Talking about what you do in your professional or Board role rather than your key achievements or key contributions
• Using the wrong language
• Not addressing the required information

This episode delves into the critical errors that can derail your Board application. I provide actionable strategies and examples to help you avoid these pitfalls and craft a compelling Board Resume that effectively showcases your unique Board value proposition. Learn to target your resume for the specific Board you're interested in, grab the reader's attention, and land an interview.

Join the live webinar on Crafting a Winning Board Resume: getonboardaustralia.com.au/boardresumewebinar

Links and Resources:

• Episode 102: Setting Your Board Goal
• Episode 103: Understanding Your Unique Board Value Proposition
• Program: Build Your Board Resume
• Board Resume Writing Service
• Articles and Podcasts: Board Resumes
• Course: Break into the Boardroom

Today I dive into the essential components of a compelling Board Resume. Learn how to create a strategic document that showcases your unique value to a Board and captures the attention of recruiters and nominating committees.

In this episode, I discuss why your Board Resume matters and its crucial role in securing Board positions. I also talk about crafting a powerful executive summary/Board profile, highlighting your core competencies and value proposition, and showcasing Board-relevant experience, even without formal Board roles. Furthermore, I delve into demonstrating your leadership and soft skills, the importance of community involvement and networks, leveraging education and professional development, formatting and presentation tips for a visually appealing and effective resume, and common mistakes to avoid.

Special Announcement:

• Join the free and live webinar on Crafting a Winning Board Resume: getonboardaustralia.com.au/boardresumewebinar

Links and Resources:

• Program: Build Your Board Resume
• Board Resume Writing Service
• Articles and Podcasts: Board Resumes
• Course: Break into the Boardroom

Are you struggling to create a Board Resume that gets you noticed? You're not alone. Many aspiring Board Members find the process confusing and the Board world a bit of a mystery.

I'm constantly helping people with their Board Resumes, and I hear all sorts of myths and mindsets that hold them back from producing a compelling Board Resume that gets them onto the Board they're hoping to get on.

The truth is, your Board Resume is a crucial tool – a key part of the 'Board game' you need to play to successfully launch or progress your Board career.

Having spent over a decade helping aspiring Board Members (myself included) craft resumes that lead to Board roles, I'm here to debunk the common misconceptions and reveal what it really takes to create a Board Resume that opens doors.

In this episode, I'm tackling the common myths about Board Resumes. Is it just a CV? Can you use your professional resume? Do you really need to tailor it? We'll explore these questions and more, giving you the insights you need to create a resume that gets you seen and gets you selected.

Links Mentioned in this Episode

Webinar: Crafting a Winning Board Resume

Program: Build Your Board Resume

Board Resume Writing Service

Articles and Podcasts: Board Resumes

Course: Break into the Boardroom

Are you dreaming of a seat at the boardroom table but feeling held back by common misconceptions? In this episode we tackle three prevalent myths that are keeping talented individuals out of Boardrooms. Get ready to have your assumptions challenged and your confidence boosted!

What You'll Learn:

Myth #1: You need specific qualifications to be a Board Member.

• Discover the surprisingly simple legal requirements for becoming a company director.
• Understand how Boards create their own selection criteria and why continuous learning is essential.
• Find links to valuable Director education resources.

Myth #2: Volunteer Board Members have less responsibility.

• Learn the truth about the equal responsibilities of all Board Members, regardless of remuneration.
• Grasp the concept of fiduciary duty and its implications.
• Understand why a high standard of care is crucial in any Board role.

Myth #3: You have nothing to offer a Board.

• Overcome "imposter syndrome" and recognise your unique value.
• Learn how to identify your "zone of genius" and leverage it in the Boardroom.
• Discover seven key questions and a powerful technique to uncover your Unique Board Value Proposition.

Key Takeaways:

• Don't let myths and self-doubt hinder your Board career.
• Embrace your capabilities, understand your responsibilities, and step confidently into the Boardroom.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

• Paid Director Education Options
• Free Director Education Options
• Seven Questions to Answer about your Zone of Genius
• Understanding your Unique Board Value Proposition
• Who can't be a Company Director | Section 206B of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth)