More than ever, today’s boardroom’s are recognising the importance of cognitive diversity.
Cognitive diversity is about taking ideas from outside your usual frames of reference and applying them to everything: from everyday problem-solving to winning new business.
I firmly believe more women should be applying for non-executive roles because we can often approach problems or issues from a different perspective to men.
While breaking into the non-executive world has its challenges, if you’re capable of bringing your expertise to an organisation then believe me – organisations are desperate for people like you.
So, how do you crack that first non-executive role?
Organisations will usually have an idea of some of the characteristics and skills they’re seeking, but it may not be entirely obvious when reading the job description or advert.
Before starting the application process, show the organisation the respect of taking the time to understand them. Make an effort to understand their values and the direction the organisation is heading in. What can you contribute to their stated mission? What about your profile makes you uniquely qualified to make an impact?
Once you have an understanding of the organisation’s values and what they’re looking for, your job is to create a clear, compelling narrative that demonstrates precisely how you can contribute to their organisational outlook.
In your first approach, you will need to map out the skills and values you possess that make you a perfect match for their organisation. Furthermore – and crucially – you must explain why you want the role. That organisation wants to feel special and not just a number on your application hitlist. A well-crafted first contact can illustrate that you’ve done your due diligence and feel confident that you have expertise they need.
Our understanding of the value of diversity has developed at extraordinary speed over the last decade. People and organisations alike are increasingly realising how diversity strengthens an organisation at every level.
But increasing diversity is a broad stroke of a hiring policy, and organisations must define their goals with as much specificity as possible in order for them to be effective. An interesting development I’ve noticed over the past five years is the increased consideration of invisible diversity, which is now finally being recognised with equal importance to visible diversity. What’s the difference, though?
Visible diversity can be defined as the differences which are immediately observable when you look at someone.
Invisible diversity refers to traits that are not readily ‘seen’. These can span across a broad range of experiences and values, and by focusing on such differences we shift the discussion from “how can we increase gender and racial diversity?” to “do we have the variety of diverse perspectives to deal with complex problems and create innovative solutions?”
With this in mind, take the time to consider what makes your experience or perspective unique, and how it will be beneficial to their organisation.
At the preliminary stages of an application process, there’s often a clear divide in self-belief between men and women.
In my experience, women will often see a position they’re well suited to but are quick to be discouraged by elements of the job description that don’t fit their profile. This leads them to not push as hard for the role, or not to push at all. Conversely, men tend to focus much more expressly on what makes them a great match, and these considerations boost their confidence as they proceed.
At the earliest application stages, it’s not just about selling yourself to the organisation. It’s about selling that organisation to yourself.
You may have to push on a few different doors before you land that first non-exec role. Unfortunately, the first door is rarely the one that opens, however each unsuccessful approach offers a vital learning experience to boost your resilience and refine your tactics.
Your perseverance will always be your best tool to landing that first non-exec position.
In my work as a recruiter, I am seeing numerous boards taking steps to improve diversity, which means there are more opportunities than ever before for women to enter the non-executive world.
An organisation’s push for diversity can often be seen as a politically correct move, but diversity of thought has a far more significant impact than simply ‘ticking a box’. Including a wider scope of experiences and skill sets in a team brings genuine value to an organisation, and vastly increases the potential for innovation and new solutions.
To this end, women should feel empowered to apply for non-executive roles and pride themselves on bringing to the boardroom their unique and fresh perspectives.
Now is your chance, so go out there and make an impact.
With over 18 years’ experience Helene has appointed to senior roles within the arts, health and education fields as well as central and local government. Over the last ten years, she has specialised in the appointment of executive and non-executive directors in the NHS covering acute, ambulance service, primary care, mental health and regulatory bodies as well as national organisations such as NHS England and Healthwatch
June
18jun10:0016:00Legal Essentials: Supporting Women at Work
18/06/2025 10:00 - 16:00(GMT+00:00)
Did you know that tribunal claims related to menopause, menstruation, fertility treatment and pregnancy loss are rising fast? Many employers don’t realise that these issues can
Many employers don’t realise that these issues can legally qualify as a disability under the Equality Act.
Yet most of these claims are avoidable with the right training, policies and action.
That’s why I’ve partnered with employment lawyer Hannah Strawbridge to deliver a full-day, live online course designed specifically for HR, DEI, and managers.
You will be able to:
Understand your legal obligations around women’s health issues
Recognise when they may be classed as a disability under the Equality Act
Take practical steps to reduce legal and reputational risk
Learn how to avoid tribunal claims
Handle health-related conversations and workplace adjustments with confidence
Create a legally compliant Women’s Health Action Plan
Whether you’re reviewing your current policies or building a strategy from scratch, this course will give you the legal clarity and practical support you need.
DATE: Wednesday 18th June
TIME: 10.00am – 4.00pm
PLACE: Zoom
19jun18:0021:00Discover How You Can Make a Difference at our eCubed Volunteer Social
19/06/2025 18:00 - 21:00(GMT+00:00)
Arch One
83 Rivington St, Shoreditch EC2A 3EY (the old Cargo)
Whatever your interests or skills, there’s a place for you on our passionate volunteer team. Together, we run inspiring
Join us for a relaxed evening of drinks, nibbles, and conversation with the eCubed team. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what we do, how we do it, and the charities we champion.
Curious about getting involved? This is the perfect chance to throw yourself into the eCubed experience and see if it’s the right fit for you. All you need is a can-do attitude and a passion for creating positive change—everything else is a bonus.
Day : Thursday 19th June, 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Location : Arch One, 83 Rivington St, Shoreditch EC2A 3EY (the old Cargo)
Simply register below, let us know any guests you’d like us to bring. We can’t wait to meet you. You’re guaranteed to meet some awesome people and hopefully be inspired to get involved or even share some new ideas – no pressure, no obligation.
26junAll DayThe Brilliance Summit 2025
26/06/2025 All Day(GMT+01:00)
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms
The Edinburgh Suite, 61-65 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5DA
We’re proud to announce our partnership with The Brilliance Summit, an electrifying one-day event for women in leadership
This isn’t just a summit—it’s a movement.
“At The Brilliance Summit, women show up, speak up, and level up. They shake off limitations, own their presence, and lean into their next level.”
Taking place in London on Thursday, 26th June this transformative event is curated for ambitious women who lead, whether that’s in the boardroom, the business world, or within themselves.
Here’s why this matters:
We’ve seen the power of what happens when women are given space to show up fully—and this is that space.
As partners, we’re excited to offer our community a discounted ticket.
Use code WeAreTheCity2025 at checkout to access your exclusive rate.
Grab your ticket now at www.thebrilliancesummit.com
Let this be the moment you stop waiting and start owning your brilliance.
26jun08:0017:00WeAreTech Festival | Hybrid Conference
26/06/2025 08:00 - 17:00(GMT+01:00)
etc.venues, St Paul's,
200 Aldersgate St, Barbican, London, EC1A 4HD
As a hybrid event dedicated to empowering women in technology, our festival continues to break barriers and redefine industry norms. This year promises an even more exhilarating experience as we bring together women from diverse backgrounds and experiences to share knowledge, inspire one another, and create new opportunities for growth and advancement in the tech industry.
The WeAreTech Festival is a beacon of inspiration for women in the tech industry, urging them to confidently stride forward in their careers. Our goal is simple yet profound: to inspire and motivate every attendee to take bold steps towards their professional aspirations.
Throughout the day, you’ll have unparalleled access to the wisdom and insights of senior leaders in the tech field. Engage with thought-provoking discussions through our panels, where you can contribute your perspectives and glean invaluable knowledge from industry experts.
But that’s not all. The afternoon sessions are designed to put you in the driver’s seat of your learning journey. Tailor your experience to your needs and interests, shaping your path towards growth and success in the tech world.
And let’s not forget the added perks of speed networking and mentoring. Connect with like-minded individuals, forge meaningful relationships, and gain invaluable guidance from seasoned professionals who are eager to support your journey.
At the WeAreTech Festival, we believe in empowering women to embrace their potential and seize every opportunity that comes their way. Join us, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.