#048: How do Next-Gen Leaders Make the Jump to the Boardroom?, with Paul Smith

Boardrooms are experiencing major transformation and disruption as we transition into a world that demands greater transparency, digitalization, and social accountability. The old ways of doing business are becoming less relevant. Directors now need different skills, a sense of purpose and capabilities that far exceed being well connected and experienced. There is an increasing demand for a new type of board member to help govern companies and organizations in the 21st century. But, where will the next generation of directors come from? And, how do you become a non-executive board director, especially if you consider yourself an ‘outsider’? To address all this, I want to introduce you to Paul Smith.  Paul is the founder of the Future Directors Institute, an international training company dedicated to preparing next-generation leaders to lead in the boardroom.  In today’s episode, we explore the process of finding and securing a board role and how to overcome the significant challenges that stand in your way. You'll get a practical takeaway from today; Paul calls this the 5 C's: Commitment -- Know your why, what, when and where you wish to serve Contribution -- Identify and powerfully articulate your unique contribution to the boardroom Credibility -- Clearly demonstrate that you'd be an asset, not a risk, to the boardroom Community -- It's all about who knows you and what they say about you to others Confidence -- You know you can take on the challenge and secure your ideal board role Click here to listen now! Subscribe & Review in iTunes Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. I’m adding bonus episodes to the mix and if you’re not subscribed there’s a good chance you’ll miss out on those. Click here to subscribe in iTunes! Liked this episode? I would be really grateful if you'd take 30 seconds to leave an honest review in iTunes. Those reviews help other people find my podcast and they’re also fun for me to go in and read. Plus, I love to give shoutouts on the show to everyone who submits a review. Just click here to review, tap “Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favorite part of the podcast is.  Let's Get Social!  I absolutely love connecting with listeners on social media. I'm most active on LinkedIn. (And yes, I do personally post and respond to my accounts!) This is a great way to hear my latest thinking, get the inside track on new products, and occasionally see a picture of my adorable toddler.  Resources Mentioned in This Episode Book: Right Seat Right Table Podcast: Boardroom Hustle Future Directors Institute