Board Service: The Best Time to Join Is Before You Retire

An older board member talks during a board meeting. — (Image credit: Getty Images)

For many senior executives, corporate board service lives on the "someday" list — a post-retirement goal or final career chapter. But waiting too long may be one of the biggest missed opportunities in executive development today.

The best time to prepare for a board role isn't after you've stepped down. It's while you're still in the thick of your career, when your influence is high, your experience is current and your network is strong.

Active executives stand out

Today's boards aren't just looking for prestige or past titles. They want directors who bring a real-time perspective and relevant leadership experience.

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Digital transformation, ESG (environmental, social and governance), cybersecurity, workforce strategy — these are dynamic, complex issues best understood by those still leading through them.

That means actively serving executives have a clear edge. Even without prior board experience, candidates who understand today's challenges and can articulate their value are well-positioned to stand out.

According to Spencer Stuart's S&P 500 New Director and Diversity Snapshot, about one-third (34%) of the class of 2024 are first-time directors — and 67% of them are still actively employed.

The message is clear: Boards are increasingly open to fresh perspectives from leaders who are in the trenches today, not just those who have stepped away.

If you wait until after retirement, you risk losing relevance. Boards often prefer candidates who are still engaged in the business world. Starting early, ideally two years before transitioning, keeps your momentum strong and your options open.

Preparation takes time

Here's where many leaders stumble: they assume board work will fall into place once they retire. In reality, finding a board seat takes time, often 12 to 18 months.

Differentiating yourself as a strong board candidate is more than updating a résumé. It includes refining your narrative, creating tailored materials and cultivating the right relationships.

Crafting a compelling professional narrative is a foundational step in preparing for board service, and it takes time. It becomes the foundation for your board bio, LinkedIn profile and even networking conversations, making it easier for others to advocate for you.

In a competitive landscape, your ability to articulate your value to a board with confidence and clarity can make all the difference.

Value for you and your company

Board service isn't just beneficial for the individual. It delivers real value back to the executive's organization. Serving on an external board sharpens strategic thinking, expands business perspective, and introduces new ideas and frameworks.

It can also raise your company's profile and strengthen its employer brand.

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Executives who serve on boards often return with fresh energy, broader insight, and greater loyalty to their teams and mission. It's a win-win for both the leader and the organization.

Growth at the top

By the time you've reached the executive ranks, development looks different and career movement slows down. You're not learning the basics; you're navigating complexity, driving transformation and mentoring others.

Board service can provide unique exposure and development. It challenges you in new ways, connects you with high-caliber peers and offers a broader lens on business. For leaders who want to keep growing, it's a smart and satisfying evolution.

A strategic bridge to what's next

Beyond growth, board roles create a natural bridge to your next chapter. Whether you envision a phased retirement, portfolio career or consulting work, having board experience already in motion opens doors.

And while no one can predict what their "next" will look like, starting early gives you the most control over how and when you shape it.

The case for now, not later

The most effective time to pursue board opportunities is before you step away from full-time leadership. Serving while you're still active brings immediate value: Sharper strategy, expanded influence and renewed purpose.

For many, it becomes a fulfilling second act that doesn't require stepping back — it means stepping forward in a new direction.

The bottom line? Board readiness isn't something to save for retirement. It's a strategic career move that's most powerful when you're still at the top of your game.

Disclaimer

This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

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Anne deBruin Sample, CEO and owner of Navigate Forward, is an experienced HR leader and Career Transition Expert. She has written for CEOWorld magazine and has been published in Fast Company and The Wall Street Journal. Her experience includes high-level positions at PepsiAmericas, Caribou Coffee and Whirlpool Corp.