Looking to grow your leadership capabilities? Serving on a global board can teach you indispensable, next-level leadership skills.
For INC.
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Winnie Hart, a former Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Global Board Director and member in Houston, is an author, keynote speaker, brand strategist and CEO of TwinEngine, a brand growth agency fueled by purpose. She currently serves as EO senior global board advisor, leadership communications. We asked Hart about her experience leading leaders by serving on a global board. Here’s what she had to say.
I don’t feel it’s an exaggeration to say that the world is experiencing a leadership crisis. More than ever, the world needs new leaders–in business, society, and every decision-making aspect of our cultures and institutions. We need new ideas, imaginative thinking, and more effective solutions to inspire. We need their passion to promote cooperation and growth and infuse new energy into outdated systems.

I believe our future leaders are already out there because I speak with emerging leaders every day as a brand consultant. Some are entrepreneurs, others are rising executives, and some are people like you–managers, partners, thinkers, and doers–people brave enough to stand up, stand out, and help answer the challenges the world faces. Their voices and ideas are simply not being heard by a wide audience, yet.

To emerging leaders looking for your next giant step in growth opportunities, I recommend serving on the board of a business or non-profit organization. This one experience and the benefits it offers can elevate your personal and professional growth exponentially.

I know because I’ve done it; I feel fortunate to have served on EO’s Global Board of Directors for three years.

Here are 10 of the most important benefits that leading with other leaders offers you.

1. Clarify your purpose

Interacting with a group of leaders within a board will show you the many styles and personality types that leadership can take. By sharing your expertise, you’ll clarify your strongest skills, values, and core principles. Knowing what you stand for and why becomes clearer when facing important decisions that challenge your values or affect the organization’s future.