You probably know joining a charity board makes good professional sense. It can be a great way of giving back and align with your other business interests. Perhaps you discounted the idea because you don't think you'd get through the selection process, or you don't have the time to do it justice? Having supported charity boards for overtwelve years, I hope I can persuade you of the many benefits.
Make a difference
There are loads of charities of different sizes that are looking for trustees. Take your time to find one that aligns with your values. Not only will it be more enjoyable but you’ll be more likely to get through the selection process as genuine enthusiasm is hard to fake.
Development challenge
You will meet cool people and not cool people and take learning from both. Seeing how others act in the boardroom and working with people who are experts in other areas will expand your own learning. Working in another environment will challenge your thinking and perspective which can grow your own business.
Raise your profile
Being on a board gets your name in front of a whole new audience. You’ll likely create and be tagged in various posts on social media and featured in the press. This adds variety to your CV and achievements, making it easier for you to get known amongst your peers and beyond.
While the benefits are clear, there are several responsibilities that must be considered. The time commitment cannot be underestimated. It is not just rocking up for meetings. There will be reading and possibly ongoing projects you might get involved in.
Don’t forget the legal responsibility as you will be listed at the Charities Commission. You’ve also got your rep to protect. Any scandal created by the charity will impact on your reputation. The upside can be benefiting from the association and if the charity you sit on the board of is doing great things, you’ll enjoy the benefits of that – including it being super easy to get conversations with people you want to speak to and being invited to fun events.
Currently, I’m Chair at the incredible charity Smart Works Newcastle, where we support unemployed women across the North East with confidenceboosting interview clothing and coaching. Check out the transformational work we do at: newcastle.smartworks.org.uk