When interviewing board candidates, focus on listening and clearly articulating what you need from them, rather than trying to impress each other.

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.

Board members should listen more than they talk; many have been in charge for a while and may not understand the unique challenges of your company.

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

Incorporate diversity in the board early on to bring different perspectives and experiences.

When interviewing users, focus on understanding their problems rather than jumping to solutions.

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.

It's important to take the time to draft a job description for your next board member, outlining the necessary background and skills to guide your recruitment process.

It's important to draft a job description for board members that outlines the skills and background needed for the role.