Just as companies rely on a board of advisors for strategic guidance and support, you can create your own trusted circle of mentors and peers to help you navigate your career and life. Your personal board of advisors can provide feedback, share insights, and challenge you to grow in ways you might not achieve on your own.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
- What a personal board of advisors is
- Why it’s essential for your success
- How to build and nurture your board effectively
What Is a Personal Board of Advisors?
A personal board of advisors is a group of individuals you turn to for guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. These “board members” offer diverse perspectives and insights that help you:
- Navigate challenges
- Make informed decisions
- Pursue opportunities aligned with your goals
Your board might include mentors, peers, sponsors, or even people you admire from afar. The ultimate goal? Surround yourself with individuals who will support, challenge, and inspire you to reach your full potential.
Why You Need a Personal Board of Advisors
Having a personal board of advisors can be a game-changer for your growth. Here’s why:
- Perspective – They offer insights you may not see on your own.
- Accountability – They hold you accountable for your goals and aspirations.
- Support – They provide encouragement during tough times and celebrate your successes.
- Challenge – They push you out of your comfort zone and inspire you to think bigger.
How to Build Your Personal Board of Advisors
Step 1: Identify Your Needs
Start by clarifying what you want from your board. Ask yourself:
- What are my current goals and challenges?
- Where do I need guidance or support?
- What skills or knowledge gaps do I want to address?
Example:
If your goal is to step into a leadership role, you might seek advisors who excel in areas like strategic thinking, team management, or organizational dynamics. If you’re building a business, you’ll benefit from advisors with industry expertise or entrepreneurial experience.
Step 2: Choose Your Advisors Wisely
Your board should be diverse in experience, perspective, and expertise. Look for individuals who:
- Have strengths and experiences that complement yours
- Challenge your thinking and encourage growth
- Genuinely care about your success
Types of Advisors to Consider:
- Internal Advisors: Colleagues, managers, or peers within your organization who understand its dynamics.
- External Advisors: Mentors, industry leaders, or peers from different fields who can bring fresh perspectives.
- Aspirational Advisors: People you admire from a distance, whose work and leadership style inspire you.
Pro Tip: When approaching potential advisors, be clear about what you’re asking for. Most people will be flattered and willing to support you if you show genuine respect for their time and expertise.
Step 3: Cultivate Meaningful Relationships
Building a personal board of advisors is about more than assembling names—it’s about creating lasting, meaningful relationships.
Here’s how:
- Be Intentional: Schedule regular check-ins, whether monthly coffee chats or quarterly calls.
- Come Prepared: Bring specific questions or topics to each conversation to make the most of their time.
- Give Back: Relationships are a two-way street. Share resources, insights, or gratitude to add value to your advisors’ lives.
Starting Small
If you don’t yet have a network of mentors or sponsors, start with your existing circle. Look for colleagues, former managers, or peers who can offer guidance. Reach out with specific questions or for advice on a particular topic to begin building connections.
Your Next Steps
Ready to build your personal board of advisors? Here’s a step-by-step plan:
- Define Your Goals – Reflect on what you need guidance or support on right now.
- List Potential Advisors – Identify individuals whose expertise or perspective could add value.
- Reach Out – Start with one or two people. Be clear about why you’re reaching out and how you hope they can support you.
Remember, building a personal board of advisors takes time and intention, but the benefits for your growth and success are immense.
Key Takeaways
- A personal board of advisors is a group of trusted mentors and peers who guide and support you.
- Start by identifying your needs, choosing advisors wisely, and cultivating meaningful relationships.
- Be intentional, prepared, and generous to nurture these connections over time.
Final Thoughts
Your journey to success is never a solo effort. By surrounding yourself with a diverse and supportive board of advisors, you can accelerate your growth, gain new perspectives, and navigate challenges with confidence.
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Next Episode Teaser:
Join us for the next episode as we explore Crafting a Bold Leadership Plan. See you then!
Highlights
- [00:44] The Power of a Personal Board of Advisors
- [01:11] Defining a Personal Board of Advisors
- [01:43] Steps to Build Your Personal Board
- [03:30] Cultivating Relationships with Advisors
- [04:32] Starting Small and Expanding Your Network
- [04:58] Action Plan to Get Started
Resources and Links
- Follow me on social media for more personal growth tips @andreacmclean
- Read my blog post Beyond the Grind: Why Personal Connections are the Key to Success
