Many organizations achieve great success under the direction of a trusted board of advisers. As a student or a young professional, I am sure there are people in your network who you routinely tap on the shoulder for support and guidance. It is no secret that highly successful people reach out and ask for help along the way.
Creating a support system like a board of directors is an excellent way to keep oneself in check and learn from those who might have more experience or a different perspective. Who should be on your board of directors? Here are a few suggestions.
A trusted friend or family member that knows you well.
Yep, I am breaking all the rules with this suggestion. Be careful here, it might not be a great idea to ask a parent or sibling to serve in this role UNLESS they have driven down the path that you wish to explore. Personally, I rely on the support of a close friend that I met at FFA camp, what seems like a lifetime ago. We have lived together, traveled together, studied together and experienced many milestones together. She knows me well. She has also maintained a very successful sales career with a respected company in agriculture. Not only does she know me, she cares about many of the same issues and challenges that we face in this industry. I admire her work, personally and professionally. I am grateful that she is on my team.
A Professional Mentor
Who do you aspire to be? The person that embodies your aspirations is who you should ask to serve as your professional mentor. Again, use caution here. Look at the professionals in your network—or your extended network—and start a conversation. The goal here is to learn more about what they do and how they got there. My mentor is someone who I have looked up to since I began my career in higher education in 2004. When I think about the professional I would like to be, I always think of him first. If you don't know where to start, look for alumni mentoring opportunities at your school or mentor programs in your organization.
A Former Supervisor or Colleague
Just like a professional reference, it is always beneficial to include someone who has supervised you or collaborated with you closely. That person is often familiar with your work, your strengths and your weaknesses. Think about professors you have worked for or supervisors from summer internships. The list goes on an on. If you haven't had a part time job or internship, well, get started on your job search.
Someone on the Cutting Edge
I realize this suggestion leaves some room for interpretation. Look at your field and ask yourself the question, who is blazing a trail for others? Is there someone in your network who is taking risks and approaching their career with a more forward thinking approach? What are people in other organizations doing that interests you? Is there a researcher or faculty member who has their finger on the pulse of innovation? These are the kinds of people that could provide guidance on your board of advisers.
When you have created a list of candidates, start your conversations carefully. Not all of your board members will require a formal invitation, especially those that know you well. If you are reaching out to someone in your network that could be a potentially valuable career contact, remember that professionalism is everything. Your interactions from the first email or phone call will leave a lasting impression.
Originally Posted November 2016
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