Episode 17: The Secrets to Winning a Board Role with Richard Elstone

The Board Success Podcast

08-11-2023 • 33 mins

Asking the right questions is a core competency for any effective non-executive director. But it's also a critical component when interviewing for a board position. So when you prepare for an interview how can you be sure you're demonstrating your questioning abilities and stand out from the competition?

In this episode, we are joined by Richard Elstone and we explore some of the techniques to formulate great questions that impress in board interviewers. Richard discusses how you can improve your question technique and how to avoid interrogational or operational questions? We’ll discuss practical strategies to showcase your curiosity and critical thinking for the boardroom.

We also discuss the best way to deal with the dreaded "Tell us about yourself."  and how you can craft the perfect pitch and deliver a compelling story that reflects your journey and expertise, ensuring you stand out amidst the competition.
Listen for all the tips to impress the interviewers, and secure your seat at the boardroom table with Richard Elstone's expert insights, don't miss this episode.
WHAT YOU’LL DISCOVER IN THIS EPISODE:

  • Why having a "director's mindset" is crucial for those seeking non-executive director positions (04:12)
  • The significance of introductory questions in board interviews (05:32)
  • How does the initial pitch influence the interview's outcome (07:19)
  • The value of addressing failures and challenges during the initial pitch (09:55)
  • Why candidates should have the opportunity to ask questions in a board interview (13:10)
  • The due diligence process in board in board interviews and how to approach it effectively (21:05)
  • The red flags to be aware of during the board interview process (25:25)



Quotes

"Always think there's an elephant in the room, it's a great opportunity to deal with it upfront." -Richard Elstone

"Asking questions in a board interview goes to the very heart of what it is that you've been hired to do." -Richard Elstone

"There's only so much information that you can gather in a board interview. At the end of the day, the chair wants to hear your ability to ask questions and see whether you potentially are a good fit." -Richard Elstone