1. Develop a strategic plan to take you there.
2. Develop a reputation for excellence and show leadership in your main job and industry.
3. Educate yourself on board responsibilities and learn what it is like to be on a board.
4. Assess your skill set - what can you bring to the table? Fill in any gaps that you are lacking with the necessary skills.
5. Bring your "A" game to whatever you do because people are watching you. Dress well, be prepared, show up for every meeting. Do not work the BlackBerry under the table; people always notice.
6. Build your profile, your personal brand and have a board resume.
7. Tell people you know and respect, especially sitting directors or those who interact with directors, that you are seeking a board seat. Identify and meet all women directors in your city or region, because women directors often make it their mission to get other women on boards.
8. Work to get on a government commission or committee, whether local, county, state or national.
9. Seek out acquaintances who own their own companies, and volunteer to start or serve on their advisory boards.
10. Get to know recruiters at search firms.
For more information on what you can do to prepare, email Sheila at [email protected].