How Should Board Membership Be Listed on a Resume?
2 min read • Oct 25, 2024
Understanding the Importance of Board Memberships
In today's competitive job market, board memberships can significantly enhance your resume. They demonstrate leadership, governance, and experience in making strategic decisions, which are highly valued by employers.
When to Include Board Memberships
Consider including board memberships when applying for positions that emphasize leadership roles, organizational skills, or community involvement. If the board position is relevant to the job you are seeking, it should definitely be highlighted.
How to Format Board Memberships on Your Resume
List your board memberships in a separate section titled "Board Memberships" or integrate them into a "Professional Experience" section. Include the organization name, your title, and the dates you served. For example:
Board Member, XYZ Nonprofit
January 2020 - Present
This format ensures clarity and allows employers to quickly recognize your involvement.
Describing Your Role and Contributions
Briefly describe your role and the contributions you made during your tenure. Focus on impactful outcomes, such as initiatives you led or programs you developed. Use bullet points for a clean and easily readable format.
Highlighting Relevant Skills
When describing your board experience, highlight skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for. Skills such as strategic planning, fundraising, and team leadership can set you apart from other candidates.
Tailoring Your Resume for Each Application
Always tailor your resume to fit the specific job you're applying for. If a board membership aligns closely with the company’s mission or the role’s requirements, make sure it is prominently displayed.
Final Tips for Listing Board Memberships
Be concise: Keep descriptions brief while capturing the essence of your contributions.
Use action verbs: Start bullet points with strong verbs like "led," "developed," or "implemented" to convey your impact effectively.
Proofread: Ensure there are no spelling or formatting errors, as these could diminish the professionalism of your resume.