Suzy Cairney has learned a thing or two about boards.  Here she discusses the 5 key qualities that she deems important for successful board members to have.  She lists:

Leadership: confidence, communication and listening skills, persistence, emotional intelligence, vision, enthusiasm, integrity and decisiveness

Curiosity: keep learning and questioning, focus on problem-solving, continually adding value

Lean in: winning a seat at the table is not enough, build relationships with other board members, executives and staff

Understand the business: the financial, strategic, legal, governance and operational aspects of the business and the industry and customer settings

Positivity: don’t be overwhelmed by the amount of information and the legal burden, look for the silver lining - positively seeking improved processes, procedures and relationships

In this new post-COVID world, these qualities might be the difference between success and failure for aspiring Board Members.