This is the time of year that many non profit and professional associations look to their membership to fill board roles for the coming year.

Why, as a business owner, was it important for me to serve on a board?

Giving back 

When what an organization stands for is something you can get behind, serving on the board of that organization allows you to have a direct impact in the work that org is doing in the community/world.  You have an opportunity to shape what is happening and what is being offered.  I have been a board member of WBON, Raleigh – serving as their Programs Chair; Chix in Business – serving as their Program Coordinator, Programs Chair, Vice President, President; ICF Raleigh – serving as their Vice President, President and now Past President.  In each of these organizations, especially the last two, I was/am integral in helping the organization grow and manage change.

Showing your work ethic and personality

When you step up to a role on a board, it may have nothing to do with your business, yet it speaks to your character.  It allows your fellow board members, and the members at large, get to know you more deeply.  That knowledge helps build connection and trust, which leads to stronger connections and ultimately may lead to more business.   My intention with board membership in every one of these organization was to make stronger connections in my community and to use my strengths were they are needed.  A nice byproduct was increased business too 🙂

Being visible

As an introvert, having a job do do/role to play where I can be helpful allows me to step out of my comfort zone more freely.  By doing that, I am able to shine where as a member I tend to be more quiet and in the background.   Being visible is also somewhat out of my comfort zone – though getting more comfortable the more I do it.