Securing Your Seat in the Boardroom: A Strategic Guide for Women of Color

In the wake of recent global events—such as the COVID-19 pandemic, economic fluctuations, and social justice movements—corporate boards are increasingly recognizing the value of diverse perspectives. For influential women of color aspiring to join a corporate board of directors, now is the opportune moment to intensify your efforts. If you already hold a board seat, it’s the perfect time to advocate for more women of color who can bring fresh expertise and unique viewpoints to the table.

Why the Shift?

Boards are evolving. They are no longer confined to traditional leadership models but are actively seeking directors from varied backgrounds and with nontraditional skills. According to the 2022 Board Monitor report by Heidrick & Struggles, boards are looking for directors who:

Represent their employees or target audiences
Are in earlier career stages
Possess knowledge in emerging areas such as ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and cybersecurity
Come from diverse industries

Additionally, boards need directors who can advise on when a company should take a stand on social and political issues. The report highlights that in 2021, a record 43% of public board members were first-time directors, 45% were women, 41% were racially or ethnically diverse, and a growing share were active executives rather than retired ones.

Strategic and Holistic Approach to Diversity

While each board is unique, there is a general trend towards a more strategic and holistic approach to diversity. This shift presents significant opportunities for women of color. For instance, a new group emerged in 2022: Black Women on Boards, founded by two veteran executives on leading tech company boards.

Steps for Board Aspirants

If you’re aspiring to join a board, here are some strategic steps to consider:

Raise Your Hand: Network both inside and outside your company. Internally, make your aspirations known to management, highlighting your interest in career expansion. Externally, let your professional network know about your desire for board service, your credentials, and the type of board that aligns with your interests and passion.
Understand the Demands: A board seat isn’t a traditional operating role. It requires a listener who asks insightful questions, demonstrates curiosity, and skillfully employs experience and expertise.
Expand Your Executive Skills: Focus on decision-making experience, particularly in important financial projects.

Steps for Current Directors

If you’re already a board member, consider the following steps to advocate for more women of color:

Work on Your Board: Help fellow directors understand the advantages of board diversity, especially for women of color with essential voices who may be unlikely candidates, such as those with nontraditional career backgrounds.
Get to Know Promising Women of Color: Look both inside and outside the organization. Let them know they can aspire to and attain a board seat. Expand networking opportunities for them with executives and directors, including visibility at appropriate board presentations.
Communicate DEI: Let employees and the community know the board’s deep interest in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Consider holding a board forum or similar DEI-focused initiative for employees and/or the community.

Our research confirms that boards of directors are more diverse than ever before. Seize this opportunity—whether you’re a woman of color and influence striving for a board seat or a director seeking other women of color who can share their talents.

For more insights, you can refer to the Heidrick & Struggles website.