Check out the Business Day interview of Joan Withers - former Chief Executive of Fairfax Media and one of the most sought after fulltime professional company directors in NZ:
http://www.nzx.com/news/4176640/Director-believes-in-making-a-difference
She notes that it is hard for young women to get their first directorship. Her advice?
"I think it's easier if you have a strong commercial background. There are a lot of senior lawyers and senior accountants getting into board positions but I think boards are looking for commercial people with wider experience. Being a CEO certainly helps."
"A lot of people talk about networking – but make sure it is networking appropriately. Don't do as I have seen some women do and pick up business cards (at a function or meeting) and then send out a group email saying, `hi, just letting you know what I am up to'."
"Learn as much as you can. It's never been easier to go to university and do papers where you don't have the skills. Supplement your skills and do the Institute of Directors course. Do the reading. Be serious about reading and understanding what happens in a business environment."
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