Five Individuals to Add to Your Personal Board of Directors

Each of us benefits from the advice of others throughout our professional lives. During periods of transition, we come to realize the value of close relationships with trusted advisors. But how do we get started in forming bonds with other professionals as we begin our careers?

During my years in both business and academia, I have counseled young professionals to carefully consider future opportunities while establishing new contacts. I sometimes encourage them to establish a “Personal Board of Directors” with representatives from the following categories:

1. A person who occupies a position you aim to have in 8-10 years

When I began my first career (in the hotel industry), I was fortunate to know a successful general manager who had come up through various roles including the one I occupied. Although our career goals were not identical, his perspective was invaluable as I explored job options inside and outside the industry. Aim to identify someone who is a few career steps ahead of you and see if they will provide occasional advice. This is one of the best ways to resolve early career dilemmas.

2. A person who insists on excellence in all aspects of work

If you have big dreams (and I hope you do), you may be tempted to take shortcuts to reach those dreams. Recent college graduates are often impatient. In their rush to advance, they sometimes opt to move rapidly through an important project or assignment, hoping to move on to the next project that is waiting for them. You need a director who will give an honest assessment of your work. Find someone who knows excellent work and insists that you keep trying until you produce excellent work.  Heeding the advice of this director will help you build strong habits early in your career.

3. An entrepreneur, especially one who has generated profit

I am fascinated by entrepreneurs. My kids wish I was not because when we go into a small business, I always try to find the owner and pepper him or her with questions. You want a risk-taker on your board of directors who will nudge you to step outside your comfort zone. Maybe you will end up skydiving or whitewater rafting instead of launching your own business. That’s OK. The main point is to find someone who has taken a risk, failed a little, succeeded a lot and is willing to share her story. You will be better for it.

4. A poet, painter, musician, or sculptor 

Artists see the world so differently from those of us in business. Developing an appreciation for their perspectives can often help us identify new opportunities. It is one thing to admire art and another, much more educational thing to converse with the person who created a piece of art. I would encourage you to have regular interactions with an artist who serves on your personal board of directors. Be sure to listen carefully to the artist’s answers.

5. One of your former professors

Ok, this one is a bit selfish but faculty members really do enjoy hearing from their former students. That is not the reason I am suggesting you include one of them, though. In addition to the wisdom a professor might pass along throughout your career, he or she also becomes a very important and enduring link to your classmates and fellow alumni who might be helpful to you. Think of this director as a valuable connector as you explore future opportunities.

Most seasoned professionals appreciate the chance to shape the lives and careers of those who will succeed them. Find a handful of individuals and invite them to your board. Be respectful of their time and carefully consider their advice. Before long, I bet you will find yourself on the receiving end of such an invitation.