Personal Board of Directors - How to DIY without a subscription service

Expanding Your Network into a Personal Board of Directors

In today's fast-paced world, traditional networking is evolving, with many professionals exploring more focused, intentional approaches to building their inner circles. Recently, I explored companies like Chief, the women’s network, and Sidebar, a newer player in the scene, that charge annual subscriptions to match you with your very own "personal board of directors." This concept involves pairing you with a group of professionals who not only share your challenges but can also provide valuable advice and accountability as you navigate your career.

These services are becoming increasingly popular because creating such a board independently can be difficult. Even if you already have a broad network, how do you ensure you have the right people—those with the expertise you need—available to meet consistently, let alone at the same time? Paid services offer structured meetings and a sense of commitment that many people are willing to invest in because it drives accountability.

But what if you could get similar benefits without paying for a subscription? Let’s explore some alternative approaches that require more self-discipline but can still help you build a powerful personal advisory board.

1. Identify and Name Your Board Members

Start by identifying people in your network who consistently provide you with valuable insights and advice. These could be colleagues, mentors, or even peers who have a deep understanding of your industry or challenges. Once identified, recognize them as your "board of directors." Let them know that you view them as key thought leaders in your professional life. By formally recognizing their role, you create a sense of mutual respect and responsibility, which can encourage more consistent engagement.

2. Set Regular Check-ins with Purpose

While paid platforms offer structure, you can create your own schedule of regular check-ins with your board. Use tools like Google Calendar or project management apps to set quarterly or even monthly meetings. Make sure these meetings have a purpose and agenda—whether it’s a personal career update, a new project you’re working on, or advice on navigating challenges. The key here is consistency and ensuring everyone involved knows the value of their contributions.

3. Offer Value in Return

Your board should be mutually beneficial. Reach out to your selected members with an open mind to how you can help them. Offer advice, connect them to resources, or even act as a sounding board for their challenges. Building a board isn’t a one-way street—it’s about creating a reciprocal relationship where both parties gain value. This mutual exchange can make them more likely to engage with you on a consistent basis.

4. Leverage Technology for Accountability

Use free or low-cost tools like Zoom, Slack, or Teams to facilitate meetings and communication with your personal board. These platforms allow you to schedule group calls or share updates easily without the need for costly platforms. Some apps, like MeetUp, even allow you to organize virtual events, offering an additional layer of structure to your gatherings.

5. Create a Peer Mastermind Group

Another great way to build your personal board is to form a mastermind group with peers in similar industries or roles. These small, focused groups often meet regularly to discuss challenges, share ideas, and hold each other accountable. A mastermind group can be as informal or structured as you like, and the accountability is built into the nature of the group. Everyone has skin in the game because they’re invested in each other’s success.

Why This Concept is Trending

Recently, I saw a LinkedIn post declaring, "Networking is dead; boards are in." While this statement captures the growing interest in curated groups like personal boards, I don’t believe networking is dead at all. In fact, I see the board model as an extension of networking, not a replacement. You can’t build a strong board without first having a network to pull from. A few good board members might be more impactful than a large network, but the reality is, especially if you’re in sales, you need both.

Networking is still vital for finding those potential board members and uncovering new opportunities. It helps you grow a diverse range of connections, out of which you can curate your personal board. While it’s exciting to see more tailored approaches to networking gain traction, let’s not underestimate the power of building a broad network first before focusing inward.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Pay for Accountability

The rise of subscription-based personal boards of directors speaks to a growing demand for curated, meaningful professional relationships. But with discipline, purpose, and the right tools, you can achieve similar results without the subscription fee. By identifying key thought leaders in your life, offering value in return, and setting regular check-ins, you can build a board that supports your career growth—whether or not you choose to invest in a paid service.

In a world where everyone is busier than ever, intentional networking and relationship-building can be the key to long-term success. Whether you pay for the service or do it yourself, having a personal board of directors is a great way to navigate your career with clarity and accountability.