The Recipe for Failure: Why Research and Relationships Are Key to Board Appointments

If you’re applying for a board role without understanding the organisation’s board composition or having established relationships at that level, you’re setting yourself up for failure. This year, I’ve seen too many candidates walk into interviews completely unprepared—having no connections to the existing board and, worse, no knowledge of who the board members are.

In the highly competitive landscape of board appointments, preparation, networking, and thoughtful strategy are non-negotiable. Heading into 2025, now is the time to start mapping out your target boards and building the relationships that will set you up for success.

Why Research Matters

Board directors are not just looking for qualified candidates—they’re looking for trusted individuals who understand the organisation’s governance, mission, and challenges. Walking into an interview without knowing:

• The organisation’s board members

• The board’s current priorities and initiatives

• The organisational strategy and culture

...immediately raises red flags. It signals a lack of commitment, and at the board level, trust and preparation go hand in hand.

The Power of Relationships

It’s often said that board appointments are about who knows you as much as what you know. Boards want candidates who bring not only skills and experience but also strong networks and strategic relationships. Without some form of connection to the organisation or its board members, it’s very difficult to get through the door.

How to Prepare: A 2025 Roadmap for Board Success

Here’s a practical, detailed strategy to ensure you’re ready for board opportunities next year:

1. Map Out Your Target Boards

2. Research the Boards

3. Develop a Networking Strategy

4. Establish Thought Leadership

5. Tailor Your Application

6. Practice Board Interviews with Confidence

Looking Ahead to 2025

Board appointments don’t happen overnight. They require proactive effort, networking, and strategic preparation. As we approach the new year, take the time to research your target organisations, build authentic relationships with board members, and establish yourself as a thought leader.

This is the difference between showing up as a prepared, connected candidate and falling flat as someone who didn’t do their homework.

Start early. Map out your 2025 goals and take a sophisticated, strategic approach to securing that board appointment.

What’s Your Next Step? If you’re ready to build your board portfolio and develop a targeted strategy for board appointments, let’s talk. Schedule a call via my calendar here: www.calendly.com/kyliehammond/tigerboards

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