A guide to writing a Board Cover Letter
Regardless of the appointment method- via a recruiter, directly with the organization, or even by invitation- your board application must include a board resume and a cover letter. The board cover letter is a particularly significant supporting document frequently used as the initial basis for shortlisting. Getting your board cover letter right will significantly enhance your chances of being appointed, while getting it wrong will have the opposite effect.
Don’t underestimate the importance of Board Cover Letters
Typically, selection panels and decision-makers first read a candidate’s board cover letter to determine whether the candidate warrants further consideration. Chairs will also review the document to identify potential risks (to them and the organization) associated with a board candidate.
Successful board applicants know this. They understand the significance of this document and use it as an opportunity to present themselves, showcasing why they should be chosen over other candidates. Furthermore, a strong cover letter demonstrates that you are proactive, intelligent, connected, and informed.
Tips for writing a board cover letter
Historically, a board cover letter needed only to succinctly introduce the candidate, convey interest in the position, and refer to qualifications outlined in the accompanying resume to be deemed adequate. Consequently, they were often too short, lacked substance, provided no extra value,e and were frequently overlooked.
Things have changed, and here are my tips for writing a board cover letter that gets noticed.
TIP 1
Conduct significant research before writing a board cover letter.
You must conduct substantial research to gain the insights and knowledge required to demonstrate why you are the right fit for the board role, address the selection criteria, and separate yourself from the competition.
We know that Chairs seek passionate board members, therefore it is essential that candidates articulate their passion for the organization and the board role. Chairs also know that, to be effective, boards must embrace shared values and ethics. Research is required to identify and then articulate your common passions, values, and ethics.
TIP 2
Ensure your board cover letter is readable.
Keep the document to one page, using standard margins and 11pt font. Stick to a simple font such as ‘Helvetica’, which has been proven to be one of the easiest to read. Using fancy fonts is not the way to get your application noticed.
While the one-page rule is generally standard, exceptions occur when the application process specifically requests a document addressing each key criterion. In such cases, it should be no longer than two pages. Adhering to the instructions and submitting the necessary documents is crucial in these circumstances.
TIP 3
Make sure your board cover letter is easy to understand.
It sounds basic, but for a board cover letter to be effective, it must be easy to understand while engaging the reader. Following the paragraph structure below will help ensure clarity and engagement.
TIP 4
Ensure that your cover letter is easily accessible.
It should be included in your board application. This means not saving it as a separate attachment but including it as part of one application document, along with your board resume and any other requested supporting statements, all in one PDF.
TIP 5
Add it to your application email.
Including it in the body of your email when submitting your application can be a valuable way to introduce yourself, leave a lasting impression, and differentiate yourself from other candidates.
The content – five paragraphs
To produce a compelling board cover letter, you should include these five distinct paragraphs.
Paragraph 1
The opening paragraph should focus on your enthusiasm and passion for the board position, the organization, and its purpose. Those reading your board cover letter don’t want to read about the organization, where you saw the role advertisement or the details of the board role you are applying for.
With your research findings, you should be well-prepared with unique information, contacts, and knowledge about the organization, sector, and industry. The key is to consolidate this information into a statement that effectively communicates how you can help.
A strong opening paragraph should instantly grab the reader’s attention and showcase your positive qualities, such as enthusiasm, capability, intelligence, and connectedness. Assuming you’ve done your research, you should articulate that you understand the board’s and the organization’s challenges and needs. This, in turn, provides the Chair with evidence and comfort that you are less of a risk.
Paragraph 2
The second paragraph includes your Board Profile.
Your board profile is crucial because it addresses the five core selection criteria for independent board members. It neatly summarizes your experience, success, achievements, training, and ability to fulfil the desired board role. Use it as the basis of your second paragraph, pretty much as it appears on your Board Resume. Some may argue against duplicating this information on your board application, but this paragraph should not be overlooked. It is your statement as to why you should be appointed, and it is critical.
Paragraph 3
The third paragraph is typically dedicated to addressing any potential gaps in your Board Resume, whether they are real concerns, such as appearing too old or too young, over- or under-experienced, career transitions, seeming too busy, etc. Addressing these concerns is essential to alleviating any worries decision-makers may have, or to avoid forcing them to make assumptions.
For instance, if you are interested in a board role that requires travel or additional committee commitments, you can express your availability to do so. Similarly, if you are currently unemployed, provide an apparent reason for your circumstances (such as retirement or health-related reasons), or in the case of your first board role, detail your qualifications and previous experience.
If you do not meet all of the requirements they are seeking, this paragraph provides an opportunity for you to explain why your unique skill set and experience may be more valuable than they anticipate. Clearly and respectfully make your case here.
Please don’t allow the reader to overlook your application based on biases or misconceptions by providing them with a clear understanding of any gaps in your board resume.
Paragraph 4
In order to stand out, you should include something memorable in paragraph four. Chairs like to share something impressive about their new board directors. This paragraph should highlight an interesting or unique aspect of yourself.
The board appointment process is multifaceted, and every appointment is different. It is not always clear what specific element led to the final selection decision. So keep that in mind when considering what to include in this paragraph.
For example, one of my clients received an application from someone who had represented their country in table tennis. Despite table tennis not being the coolest sport, the client interviewed him because he was the most memorable applicant. His table tennis skills didn’t stand out; rather, it was his overall impression. It raises the question of what extra-professional skills may make you memorable.
Paragraph 5
The fifth paragraph is crucial and differs from the opening paragraph. It is a final summary. It affirms your understanding of the organization’s work, as well as your connectedness, intelligence, and strategic approach. It also highlights your passion for the organization’s objectives. It effectively answers the question, “Why are you applying for this organization instead of another similar one?” This final summary reflects your initial paragraph and is a solid way to conclude your board cover letter.
In Summary
Cover letters are an essential component of a board application, particularly in a competitive board appointment market. Whether you are responding to an advertisement, using a recruiter, or reaching out to a company directly, it is essential to provide this one-page document. It should demonstrate your knowledge of the organization, outline its challenges, and demonstrate how you can contribute in a specific and impactful way.
Getting this document right can significantly increase your chances of being appointed to a board. Conversely, getting it wrong will have the opposite effect. If you want me to review every board cover letter you write before submitting your application, our Board Appointment Coaching PLUS Membership includes Unlimited Application Critiquing.
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About the Author
David Schwarz is CEO & Founder of Board Appointments. He has over a decade of experience in putting people on boards as an international headhunter and recruiter. He has interviewed hundreds of directors and placed hundreds into some of the most significant public, private and NFP director roles in the world.
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