Board KickStarter Breakfast - November 2018

Thanks everyone for joining me at the November Board KickStarter breakfast and, in particular, to our fabulous speakers Liberty Sanger and Alecia Rathbone for their informative, insightful and interesting stories and tips.

Here's a summary of some of their take-out messages:

Summary of key points

Getting on a board
think about your value, you're not just adding to your CV.
It's a role with lots of work so make sure it's something you're passionate about and have the drive and purpose to do, and do well.
"not qualified" is not necessarily a barrier - you can feel your way around the strategic v. operational issues.
Being on a board
look for boards that:
encourage diversity (age, cultural etc) ("with the evidence from the Financial Services Royal Commission, never has there been a more powerful message for diversity")
know the difference between operational and governance work.
Prepare for meetings so you can ask great questions that add value - read your papers, understand the organisation and the sector and add the value of your experience.
Other points of note:
Know why your organisation exists - your 'why' - particularly if going through challenges and/or mergers
extend opportunities to others who are coming behind you
Tips and tricks
Network!
prepare a Board resume
Do some training like the AICD Company Directors Course
Join a NFP Board to build your skills and experience.

A sample of the feedback from breakfast

There was a valuable amount of time to discuss around the table, after each speaker
Two great speakers, lots of concepts
Guest speakers were fantastic, great insights and advice
Great agenda and time management
The morning was very enjoyable, smooth and timely
Really engaging speakers - some practical tips
Professionally organised
Hearing through experience - the two speakers were fantastic
Great passion and knowledge from speakers - shared case studies
Speakers were great and provided lots of relevant insights
Stimulating table conversation
Really useful points and tips from speakers
Loved the format - table talk, speakers and Q&A
Opportunity to network
Loved how easy it was to network
Good to hear about current / emerging issues for boards