Board Résumé Writing Tips

A board résumé is the marketing tool in which you present your personal brand, built throughout your career. When composing your board résumé, a format that is clearly organized, consistent, and contains the vital information presented below will keep the reader (nominating chair) engaged and give you a great advantage in landing your next board seat.

ANNOUNCE YOUR VALUE PROPOSITION

• DO NOT add your objectives. DO add a brief summary statement (about three to four lines) at the beginning of the résumé which describes the value you bring to a board and to an organization. Distill your value through a leadership lens. Include the scope of your job responsibilities, public and private company experience, international experience, and any special skills you may possess. Remember to keep the tone professional.
• In summaries of your professional experience, include a one-line description of the organization; note whether each company was public, private, or nonprofit; include the firm’s annual revenue (if applicable); and include your title, role, tenure, and highlights or accomplishments.
• If you have been at the same company for many years, separate your career into subsections according to your various, relevant positions. Keep the text in each section brief, while highlighting accomplishments; avoid using industry jargon or acronyms.