Charting Success: A Veteran’s Roadmap to Assembling a Powerful Advisory Board

Charting Success: A Veteran's Roadmap to Assembling a Powerful Advisory Board

Hey everyone!

I’ve been thinking a lot about the journey from military life to starting a business. It’s a wild switch but guess what? Being a vet, you’ve got a ton of awesome skills that can help you totally rock the business world. The thing is, business can be a whole new battlefield. And on this battlefield, having an advisory board can be like having the best team ever to help you win!

So, imagine you’re about to kick off a new mission—only this time, it’s your very own business. Crazy, right? It’s a bit like being in unknown territory. You’ve got to be sharp, and you need a strong crew by your side.

Creating an advisory board is like getting your dream team together. You pick each person for their awesome skills and knowledge, kind of like building a super squad in the military. People who’ve got your back and know their stuff.

But how do you even start? It’s like getting ready for a mission. You’ve got to look at your battle plan (aka your business) and figure out where you’re a pro and where you could use a little backup.

Next, think about all the incredible people you’ve met during your service. You’ve already got this amazing network of folks who get what it means to be disciplined and determined. Some might be doing their own business thing now or they know someone who is. Reach out to them!

Don’t forget, your advisory board should be as diverse as a box of crayons because that’s how you’ll get all sorts of amazing ideas and viewpoints. Different backgrounds mean different ways of tackling problems—super important when you’re heading into unknown business territory.

And hey, it’s not just about the brains. You want people who click with you, who get your vision, and are as excited about your business as you are. They should be up for more than just giving out tips; they should be ready to get in the trenches with you.

You’re the boss, so you get to call the shots. Tell your board what you need from them—set up the rules, how often you chat, and what you’re all aiming for. Make it crystal clear, so you’re all marching to the beat of the same drum.

Having everything written down is key. It doesn’t need to be as intense as a military contract, but a simple agreement lays out the game plan for everyone.

Your advisors have connections that can be like finding treasure for your business, from new partners to new customers. They’re like your business’s secret weapon!

Keeping up the communication is like keeping your radio on during a mission. Have regular catch-ups, be open, and really listen to what they’ve got to say. Advice can be as good as gold.

Just like anything else, your board might need some tweaking as your business grows. You might need new skills or have to say goodbye to some members. That’s all part of navigating this new terrain.

Starting your business is another kind of service. It’s about taking all that military know-how and smashing it in the business world. And with an epic advisory board, you’re not just building a company; you’re on a mission toward something great.

Here’s to the next journey—your military experience has set you up for success, and your advisory board is your squad. Let’s do this!