The 5 factors that contribute to effective corporate governance
What to include in your NED CV
Creating a Non-Executive Director CV (NED CV) is a special type of CV focus. Most CV’s should be limited to two pages but the NED CV often runs 2-4 pages because of the unique requirements of the position. These positions have some unique qualities and require a different kind of experience. Here are some of the qualities to consider when putting together your history. The most effective non-exec CV will emphasise these qualities throughout the CV.
Skills needed for the non-executive director position
- Diplomacy – this ability forms the basis for many actions and relationships as an NED. Political savvy and skill is a must for this job. Your CV should demonstrate the times you used this attribute.
- Leadership abilities – this job is about leading a business or organisation. Show how effective a leader you are on your CV.
- Business ability – point out how you find new business opportunities, clients, institute change and keep a business going. Be specific in the size and nature of the businesses you have worked in.
- Sound analytical skills – Include your abilities to analyse data and other points of business and use this to make good business decisions.
- Integrity – show how you handled situations when you needed to make choices to maintain your selfworth.
- Interpersonal skills – showcase the abilities you have with interpersonal relationships – such as public speaking, networking and memberships in associations.
The 5 blocks approach
Your NED CV needs to start off with a block containing your personal contact information within the header. This should be easy to read and stand out on the CV.
The second block should include a candidate profile about your background. This is not the same as a résumé, it is a general view of who you are, where you came from and where you want to go.
The next block should include your previous board and current experience on or with company boards. Include acting as a Trustee, Governor, Company Secretary or other board level consultant.
The fourth block includes a review of your career experience. This needs to be honest, but don’t worry about periods of time without a position. That is not important here. You should go back about 10 years or so, but include relevant jobs.
The last block should include education, certificates, memberships, any professional competencies, and whatever else you bring to the table. Keep the main qualifications in mind here.
Lastly, make sure your non-exec CV is presented with good grammar, an edited appearance, and if printed, that it is on professional paper. These days CVs and applications are often in email or online form, so make sure that the CV is clearly laid out and reader friendly for viewing on a computer. Then make sure to diffuse it to the relevant decision maker. And again, network, network, network.
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Very helpful advice