Learn some strategies to join an advisory board as an investment banker, such as finding your niche, building your brand, targeting opportunities, and pitching your value.

Build Your Network: Connect with industry pros via events, conferences, and LinkedIn. Bonding with those on boards or influential can open doors. Join BWOB, Athena Alliance, NACD, PDA or WCD. Spotlight Your Expertise: Flaunt your finance, economics, or regs skills. Articles, talks, or panels boost your credibility. Don't be shy! Share Your Value: Show what you bring. Your insights and skills can aid in tough strategy or financial calls. Always Build Relationships: Get close to decision-makers in banks. Having allies who vouch for you and up your chances. Don't Forget Diversity: Stress the need for varied backgrounds on boards. Offer fresh perspectives for better decisions. Proactivity: Go after opportunities. Don't wait!

Developing and utilizing your network, coupled with strategic positioning, are key in opening up opportunities. In fact, most opportunities that come your way will likely originate from your connections and relationships. This involves strategically exploring new and unfamiliar areas. Start engaging with board members in investment banking; chairs, and members of nominating committees. Become deeply involved in that specific ecosystem.This method focuses on developing significant relationships with deliberate intent and strategic planning.

The dynamic world of Offshore Private Wealth Management! Key staff continuous development areas: 💬"Financial freedom is not just a destination; it's a journey we embark on together." This philosophy guides our approach. 🌟Empowering our team is key. We're creating professionals who are knowledgeable and deeply connected to the client journey. 🔎Navigating complexities; tailoring strategies to each client's unique financial goals. 🧭Empathy is our compass. Connecting with clients on a personal level and understanding the nuances of their financial ambitions. Offshore Private Wealth Management: more than a profession; it's a commitment to transforming lives How do you approach Wealth Management? #ClientJourney #ProfessionalPassion

What strategies can you use to secure an advisory board seat in IB?

If you are an experienced investment banker who wants to leverage your expertise, network, and reputation, you may be interested in joining an advisory board. An advisory board is a group of external advisors who provide strategic guidance, insights, and connections to a company or organization. Unlike a board of directors, an advisory board does not have any legal or fiduciary responsibilities, but can still add value and credibility to the business. However, securing an advisory board seat in IB is not easy, as you will face high competition and expectations. In this article, we will share some strategies that can help you achieve this goal.

1 Identify your niche

The first step is to identify your niche or area of specialization that can differentiate you from other candidates. You need to have a clear value proposition that showcases your unique skills, knowledge, and experience in a specific sector, industry, or function. For example, you may have a deep understanding of the healthcare market, the M&A process, or the ESG trends. You also need to demonstrate how your niche can benefit the company or organization that you want to advise. For example, you may have access to relevant contacts, insights, or opportunities that can help them grow, innovate, or solve problems.

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Tracy S Harris

Board Director * Audit Committee Chair * Executive
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Build Your Network: Connect with industry pros via events, conferences, and LinkedIn. Bonding with those on boards or influential can open doors. Join BWOB, Athena Alliance, NACD, PDA or WCD. Spotlight Your Expertise: Flaunt your finance, economics, or regs skills. Articles, talks, or panels boost your credibility. Don't be shy! Share Your Value: Show what you bring. Your insights and skills can aid in tough strategy or financial calls. Always Build Relationships: Get close to decision-makers in banks. Having allies who vouch for you and up your chances. Don't Forget Diversity: Stress the need for varied backgrounds on boards. Offer fresh perspectives for better decisions. Proactivity: Go after opportunities. Don't wait!

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Angela McGreal

Passionate Recruiter, Trainer & Coach! I am the Catalyst to unlocking your potential | Leading Offshore Wealth
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The dynamic world of Offshore Private Wealth Management! Key staff continuous development areas: 💬"Financial freedom is not just a destination; it's a journey we embark on together." This philosophy guides our approach. 🌟Empowering our team is key. We're creating professionals who are knowledgeable and deeply connected to the client journey. 🔎Navigating complexities; tailoring strategies to each client's unique financial goals. 🧭Empathy is our compass. Connecting with clients on a personal level and understanding the nuances of their financial ambitions. Offshore Private Wealth Management: more than a profession; it's a commitment to transforming lives How do you approach Wealth Management? #ClientJourney #ProfessionalPassion

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2 Build your personal brand

The second step is to build your personal brand and reputation as an expert and thought leader in your niche. You need to establish your credibility and visibility by sharing your insights, opinions, and achievements through various channels. For example, you can write articles, blogs, or books, speak at events or podcasts, or join professional associations or networks. You also need to cultivate your relationships with key stakeholders, such as clients, peers, mentors, or influencers, who can vouch for your expertise and refer you to potential opportunities. You should also update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and website to highlight your advisory board aspirations and qualifications.

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Marcia Ashong-Sam, MCIArb

Delivering diverse leadership talent at scale, and providing the tools leaders need to transform their businesses | Tutu Fellow | Eisenhower Fellow | #MostInfluentialAfricans2019 | #MIPAD2022
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Establishing a strong personal brand is crucial for successfully seeking board opportunities. A well-crafted brand narrative enhances your ability to communicate your unique value proposition. An effective personal brand clearly conveys your specialized expertise and the value you add to the boardroom. As an accomplished executive, you’re likely already active on LinkedIn and savvy in leveraging it to attract followers or potential board opportunities. Recruiters frequently start their due diligence on LinkedIn, with up to 90% utilizing it in their searches. A robust LinkedIn profile will bolster your experience, value, and thought leadership in your field. Use your online presence to cultivate your reputation as a thought leader.

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3 Research and target potential opportunities

The third step is to research and target potential opportunities that match your niche and interests. You need to identify the companies or organizations that are looking for advisory board members or could benefit from your advice. You can use various sources, such as industry reports, news articles, databases, or social media, to find out more about their background, goals, challenges, and needs. You also need to understand their advisory board structure, composition, and expectations, such as the size, scope, frequency, and compensation of the board. You should also look for any existing connections or referrals that can help you get in touch with the decision-makers or influencers.

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Marcia Ashong-Sam, MCIArb

Delivering diverse leadership talent at scale, and providing the tools leaders need to transform their businesses | Tutu Fellow | Eisenhower Fellow | #MostInfluentialAfricans2019 | #MIPAD2022
Report contribution
Developing and utilizing your network, coupled with strategic positioning, are key in opening up opportunities. In fact, most opportunities that come your way will likely originate from your connections and relationships. This involves strategically exploring new and unfamiliar areas. Start engaging with board members in investment banking; chairs, and members of nominating committees. Become deeply involved in that specific ecosystem.This method focuses on developing significant relationships with deliberate intent and strategic planning.

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4 Craft your pitch and proposal

The fourth step is to craft your pitch and proposal that showcases your value and fit for the advisory board role. You need to tailor your pitch and proposal to the specific company or organization that you are targeting, and highlight how you can help them achieve their objectives and overcome their challenges. You should also emphasize your passion and enthusiasm for their mission and vision, and show your alignment with their culture and values. You should also include relevant examples of your past achievements, testimonials, or case studies that demonstrate your impact and results. You should also be prepared to answer any questions or objections that they may have.

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Marcia Ashong-Sam, MCIArb

Delivering diverse leadership talent at scale, and providing the tools leaders need to transform their businesses | Tutu Fellow | Eisenhower Fellow | #MostInfluentialAfricans2019 | #MIPAD2022
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Conventional resumes are not appropriate for board candidacy evaluation. Instead, it’s important craft a compelling board biography that grabs the attention of board-nominating committees. Emphasize your personal brand, spotlight your distinct contributions, and explain why you are the most suitable candidate for the role.

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Marcia Ashong-Sam, MCIArb

Delivering diverse leadership talent at scale, and providing the tools leaders need to transform their businesses | Tutu Fellow | Eisenhower Fellow | #MostInfluentialAfricans2019 | #MIPAD2022
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Boards look for candidates who have navigated the scale or growth levels their organizations aim to reach. They generally prefer board members with experience in handling similar growth, complexities, or challenges the company seeks to address. You will need to showcase how you’ve accomplished this, whether as an executive or in other roles.

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5 Follow up and negotiate

The final step is to follow up and negotiate with the company or organization that you are interested in joining as an advisory board member. You need to maintain regular communication and engagement with them, and show your professionalism and commitment. You should also be flexible and open to feedback, and be ready to adjust your pitch and proposal if needed. You should also be clear about your expectations and preferences, such as the time commitment, the scope of work, and the compensation. You should also be respectful and courteous, and thank them for their consideration and opportunity.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What strategies can you use to secure an advisory board seat in IB?

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1 Identify your niche

2 Build your personal brand

3 Research and target potential opportunities

4 Craft your pitch and proposal

5 Follow up and negotiate

6 Here’s what else to consider

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