Women at Work

Ever Consider Joining a Board?

Nov 27, 2023

Learn about the benefits and challenges of joining a board as women share their experiences. Discover the opportunities in healthcare sector board positions and the relationship between nonprofit and corporate board work. Explore the functions and responsibilities of boards, the importance of networking, and the time commitment involved in board membership.

47:20

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Quick takeaways

Serving on a board allows women to have a say in business decisions, influence employee and customer treatment, and enhance career prospects for senior executives aspiring to become CEOs.

Volunteering and networking play significant roles in securing a board seat, and starting on a nonprofit board can be a stepping stone to joining a board, providing opportunities to expand skills and make a meaningful impact in communities or industries.

Deep dives

Importance of Women on Boards for Improved Decision-Making and Financial Performance

Research suggests that having women on corporate boards leads to better decision-making and improved financial performance. Serving on a board gives women a say in how businesses are run and the opportunity to influence employee and customer treatment. It also enhances career prospects for senior executives aspiring to become CEOs. Nonprofit boards serve as a starting point for many directors, offering a chance to expand skills, network, and make an impact in communities or industries. Passion and interest are key qualifications for joining smaller nonprofit boards.

Introduction

6min

Opportunities in Corporate Board Positions in the Healthcare Sector

2min

Experiences serving on boards and the relationship between nonprofit and corporate board work

3min

Functions and responsibilities of boards in organizations

18min

Building Relationships, Gaining Insights, and Time Commitment in Board Membership

3min

Responsibilities and Commitments of Being on Corporate Boards

17min

Being on a board is a chance to grow—your mind, your skills, your network, your impact. It’s also another time commitment to fit in, and, for some women, another environment where they have to fight to be heard. So, is the payoff worth the effort?

Yes, according to the eight women who volunteered to speak about their experience serving on boards of companies, nonprofits, and schools. They share how they landed a seat, gained confidence in the role, and found unexpected personal and professional benefits in the work. We hope that their perspectives and advice will inspire you to consider trying it yourself some day.
Ellen Zane, who runs a Harvard workshop for women interested in board work, provides further insight based on her years of experience as a director for nonprofits and private and public companies.

Guest expert:

Ellen Zane directs the Women on Boards: Getting on and Adding Value annual program through Harvard’s School of Public Health (here’s the application for the next one, April 18–19, 2024). She’s the former CEO of Tufts Medical Center, and she’s on the board of directors for several nonprofits and private and public companies.

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