It’s no secret that board roles—particularly commercial, paid appointments—are more competitive than ever. But here’s the good news: if you’re serious about securing a board appointment in the next few months, there is a proven strategy. The challenge is that most people are looking in the wrong place.
Let me share with you the top three things I recommend to every client who wants to accelerate their board career—strategies that consistently deliver results.
1. Tap Into the Unadvertised Board Search Market
Most of the real board action is happening behind the scenes.
If you’re relying solely on platforms like the AICD job board or SEEK, you’re missing out. These advertised roles are hyper-competitive, and rarely result in meaningful traction—particularly for commercial board appointments.
As The Australian Financial Review recently noted, “More than 70% of board appointments happen through networks and direct referrals, not public advertising.”
That’s why I encourage clients to spend the majority of their time cultivating relationships with Chairs, existing Non-Executive Directors, nomination committees, private equity firms, and trusted advisers who influence the board search process.
💡 Pro tip: Map your target sectors, then identify the key decision-makers in each business. Reach out. Book coffees. Attend boardroom events. Show up where the board conversations are happening.
2. Optimise Your LinkedIn & Establish Your Thought Leadership
When you reach out to decision-makers, they will check your LinkedIn profile. That’s a guarantee.
So what will they see?
A dated executive profile that doesn’t speak to your boardroom value? Or a polished, purpose-driven presence that signals you’re ready for the boardroom?
The Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) states that “a strong digital brand and active thought leadership are now essential for board-readiness.”
Publishing your insights on governance, risk, ESG, or innovation isn’t just about vanity—it gives you a credible “calling card” to accompany your outreach. It demonstrates expertise, authority, and relevance. It opens doors.
And make no mistake—boards want to appoint directors who are visible, knowledgeable, and ahead of the curve.
3. Be Laser-Focused on One Type of Board Role
My most successful clients—those who secure appointments quarter after quarter—do not take a scattergun approach.
Instead, they spend the quarter focused solely on one type of board. For example: healthtech, fintech, education, or infrastructure. They refine their criteria, identify the key organisations, and then build a bespoke networking plan for that niche.
This targeted approach allows them to have more meaningful conversations with the right people—and it works.
As reported in The Australian, “Specialisation is fast becoming the key differentiator in board appointments, particularly in sectors undergoing digital or ESG transformation.”
If you’re not clear on your value proposition or the kind of board you want to serve on, it becomes incredibly difficult for others to advocate for you or introduce you to the right opportunities.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to sit back and wait for an advertised board opportunity to appear.
✅ Get proactive. ✅ Get strategic. ✅ And get focused.
The boardroom is evolving—and those who approach it with intention and rigour are the ones who will be invited to take a seat.
If you’re ready to take a serious step forward in your board career, I invite you to schedule a confidential conversation with me or explore the Tiger Boards Director Registry to ensure you’re on our radar for upcoming board appointments.
