A good board should consist of experienced individuals who are engaged and can help guide the company, especially during fundraising and strategic decisions.

When recruiting board members, ensure they are willing to invest time in understanding your business; those who aren't should not be on your board.

Diversity on your board is crucial; it can enhance perspectives and make employees feel more connected to the company. I wish I had prioritized it sooner.

Innovating in corporate governance, such as choosing unusual incorporation methods, is often misguided and can lead to complications that distract from the main goal of creating a valuable product.

Most startup boards lack the necessary information to make informed decisions, which can lead to misguided strategies and a disconnect between the board and the founder's vision.

Founders sometimes prioritize their own interests over the company's, which can lead to poor governance and decisions that harm investors, such as structuring deals that favor themselves disproportionately.

When recruiting board members, find people who love your mission and are aligned with the company's goals, rather than just seeking big names.

Establishing personal connections is vital when negotiating deals; many founders fail to do this, which can hinder their success.

When selecting a board of directors, aim for individuals who can help you rather than those you have to manage; I chose board members with unique expertise that aligned with my needs at VMware.