Mistakes Companies Make When Recruiting For Board Members — Lionesses of Africa

by Naike Moshi 

Having the right people on your board is absolutely fundamental to ensuring the organization is run effectively and efficiently. As with any recruitment exercise, it is important to consider what role the board members will have, and the skills, knowledge, and experience they need.

Board recruitment mistake number 1

Recruiting people for their brand names or those already in the spotlight or family or relatives. Companies select high profile people of influence, power with money, or sometimes people related to them. Instead of recruiting for the usual suspects, recruit outside your social circle, people based on their skills, talent, and value that they can bring to your company or cause of your organization.

Board recruitment mistake number 2

Not having a proper job description detailing more on the board member obligations and skills sets needed. This is the first step, and not setting clear expectations from the beginning can lead to failure.

Board recruitment mistake number 3

Not using the right channel to source board members. Board members are usually highly qualified and with expertise in a certain area or specific skillsets. Find the right networks such as CEO roundtable, Institute of Directors, and Women in Management Africa, and other networks/associations. 

Board recruitment mistake number 4

Not having diverse board members. I have seen companies not having a gender balanced board. Research shows that increasing women’s representation on corporate boards improves business outcomes in multiple ways, ranging from increased revenues and profits. Gender-diverse boards are more likely to appoint women to leadership positions like a CEO and board chair. A diverse board can include youths – you don’t have to have wrinkles or  BBC (Born before computers) to be on the board. Millennial /shadow boards can provide clear perspectives and non-biased viewpoints.

Board recruitment mistake number 5

Not considering The 4 Ws – work, wisdom, wealth and wallop.” (Wallop means connections.) Board members should be able to work, provide wisdom and wealth, and yes connections that will lead to business or organization growth.

What are some of the mistakes you have seen when it comes to board recruitment?