So you want to be a corporate board member? Well, being a corporate board member can be a rewarding way to make a contribution to the business community. It's a way to share your knowledge and expertise and at at the same time, can be financially rewarding as well. If you're ready, willing, and able to serve in this capacity, I'll set out how you can go about getting the job.

But first, make sure you really do understand the duties, responsibilities, and risks involved in being a corporate board member. Serving on the board of directors of a corporation is no sinecure. You'll have real duties, and obligations to the shareholders of the company on whose board you serve. See my Helium article, "Legalities Surrounding Corporate Board Membership" for a discussion of the legal issues you'll want to carefully consider before accepting an appointment to serve as a corporate board member.

For now though, we'll just assume you want to serve in the capacity of a corporate board member. I have some good news for you. It's never been easier to get your foot in the door.

There are two reasons why you've picked an excellent time to consider a foray into corporate board membership.

The first relates to demographics. Corporations, large and small, have their boards largely filled by members of the baby boom generation. These boomers are beginning to leave the boardroom for the golf course, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to replace them.

The second reason is that, in the wake of recent corporate scandals, many people are reluctant to serve on corporate boards, and when they do decide to serve, are limiting the number of boards they serve on so they don't spread themselves too thin. They want to ensure they have adequate time to properly discharge their duties.

So, because of these two reasons positions on corporate boards are going to be increasingly easier to obtain. Companies will be forced to actively recruit board members, and here's how you make sure they'll come looking for you.

Offer to serve on the boards of non-profit organizations. In the coming years, companies will be scouring the boards of non-profits for members with experience to serve on their own boards. It's a great way to get valuable board experience, and this experience will put your services as a corporate board member in demand. It's a great way to serve your community too.

Serving as a corporate board member can afford you the opportunity to be of real service, and to be rewarded for your knowledge, experience, and good judgment. If you take the time now to volunteer to serve on the boards of non-profit organizations, you'll be laying the foundation for years of rewarding and remunerative service as a corporate board member.

Learn more about this author, David Riel.
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