Joining a board is a goal many aspire to, believing they could positively contribute to an organisation’s success. Fortunately, you don’t have to wait to start your board career. You can begin by volunteering for a not-for-profit or community organisation, who are often looking for board members, looking for diversity of skills and experience.
Here are several reasons why you should consider becoming a volunteer board member:
- Gain Experience: Volunteering helps you understand board operations, governance, financial decisions, and problem-solving, enhancing your strategic thinking and leadership skills.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Gain valuable experience in strategic planning, financial oversight, and organisational governance.
- Expand Your Network: Connect with like-minded professionals who can support your career and board aspirations, leading to new friendships, professional relationships, and career opportunities.
- Gain New Perspectives: Exposure to different challenges and viewpoints can enrich both your personal and professional life.
- Pivot Your Career: If you want to switch to the non-profit sector, board experience provides insights into fundraising, programme development, and stakeholder engagement.
- Influence Policy: Contribute to broader social, economic, or environmental reforms through non-profits’ policy and advocacy work.
- Build a Portfolio Career: Starting with a non-profit board can lead to other non-executive roles, including remunerated positions.
- Give Back: Contribute significantly to your community, making a real difference and experiencing the fulfilment that comes with it.
- Sharpen Professional Skills: Apply and enhance your existing skills in a different context, particularly in strategic thinking and decision-making.
- Experience Different Leadership Styles: Experiment with new leadership styles and strategies in a supportive environment.
- Learn How to Ask for Funding: Develop the skill of soliciting financial contributions for a cause, enhancing your persuasive communication and storytelling abilities.
- Enrich Your Reputation: Adding volunteer board experience to your resume demonstrates your commitment to social responsibility and continuous learning.
- Meet Interesting People: Interact with passionate, driven individuals from various backgrounds, broadening your network of influence.
- Make an Impact on Causes You Care About: Contribute meaningfully to causes you are passionate about, creating a sense of fulfilment and purpose.
Many people volunteer on boards despite the time commitment and lack of financial reward. They are driven by personal motivations and the desire to make a difference. The community sector, with thousands of registered charities, heavily relies on these volunteers for governance.
Volunteering in governance roles involves high levels of responsibility, often requiring compliance with complex regulations and public accountability. However, the dedication and skills of governance volunteers are crucial for the sustainability and success of community organisations.
So why wait? Take your first step towards building your board career and making a meaningful impact by exploring volunteer governance opportunities on the Volunteering Services website today.
