How to Ace a Corporate Board Seat Interview

When a board seeks to recruit new members the process typically involves an interview. Board members should be prepared to answer questions ranging from what their talents and qualities will benefit the organization, to the reasons why they would like to join the board. They should also know how they will be able to commit to the position.

Boards typically look for strategic insights, not executive thinking, according to Garland McLellan, founder of Board Ready, a board consulting firm. The interviewer will want someone who can engage in high-level conversations, ask intelligent questions and challenge the company's thought processes.

A successful board member will share their own perspectives on the business issues and strategies of a potential employer, but they should also be open to hear the views of other interviewers. They should be able provide fair feedback, even if a company's performance wasn't up to par.

The interviewer can also ask candidates to evaluate the atmosphere and collegiality of the boardroom. This is particularly important in a public company, where the board's relationship with shareholders could be at risk. The board can also request candidates to disclose any conflicts of interest they may have that might affect their ability to add to the value. A conflict of interest discovered can derail a board's strategy and could have serious data room software legal implications in the worst-case scenario. If candidates are required to consider this issue it is important for them to disclose any relevant relationships and affiliations.