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The Executive Encore: Board-Ready & Advisory Self-Audit

Assess your readiness for board seats, advisory, and fractional executive roles with this interactive self-audit.

Instructions

Rate yourself on a scale of 1–5 for each statement. Be honest—this is the gap analysis between where you are and your first paid retainer.

Scoring: 1 = Strongly Disagree, 2 = Disagree, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Agree, 5 = Strongly Agree

Use the number keys 1-5 to quickly select ratings, or navigate with arrow keys and press Space to select.

Progress: 0 of 12 questions answered

Section 1: Positioning & "The Pivot"

Value Prop: I can describe the "Enterprise Value" I create in 30 seconds without mentioning my job title or my former company's name.
The Advisor Bio: I have a 1-page "Board Bio" that highlights governance, risk, and strategy rather than a 4-page resume of tactical duties.
The "Product": I have identified 3 specific "pain points" in mid-market companies that I can solve better than anyone else (e.g., "Post-merger integration for SaaS firms").

Section 2: Market Authority (The Inbound Engine)

LinkedIn Alignment: My LinkedIn profile is written for a Private Equity Partner or CEO looking for help, not a HR recruiter looking for a full-time hire.
Content Credibility: I have at least 3 "Points of View" or articles published that demonstrate my unique perspective on industry trends.
The "One-Sheet": I have a professional document that outlines my "Service Menu" (Advisory, Fractional, or Project-based) and how I charge for them.

Section 3: The Ecosystem (The Hidden Market)

The PE/VC Connection: I am on the first-name basis with at least 3 Talent Partners at Private Equity firms that specialize in my industry.
The Gatekeeper Network: My "Power 50" (former auditors, bankers, and lawyers) know exactly what kind of board or fractional seats I am looking for.
The Referral Loop: I have a systematic way to stay "top of mind" with my network without sounding like I'm asking for a favor.

Section 4: Governance & Deal Mechanics

Governance Literacy: I understand the fiduciary differences between an Advisory Board and a Fiduciary Board of Directors.
Pricing Confidence: I know my "market rate" for a fractional day-rate or a monthly advisory retainer and can defend it without blinking.
Equity Literacy: I know how to evaluate a "Success Fee" or equity grant in a startup or mid-market firm to ensure my upside is protected.

Your Encore Readiness Score

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Positioning & "The Pivot"

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/ 15

Market Authority

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/ 15

The Ecosystem

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/ 15

Governance & Deal Mechanics

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/ 15

What Your Score Means

45–60 Points: Market Ready

You are a "Plug-and-Play" asset. You likely just need better deal-flow and negotiation strategies. Your positioning is strong, your network knows what you offer, and you understand the mechanics of advisory and board roles. Focus on converting opportunities and optimizing your terms.

30–44 Points: The Operator Trap

You have the experience, but you're still talking like an employee. We need to "productize" your brain. You may have strong operational skills but haven't yet translated them into a marketable advisory offering. Focus on repositioning your expertise for the boardroom rather than the corner office.

Below 30 Points: The Invisible Executive

You are at high risk of the "Retirement Cliff." Your value is high, but your visibility is zero. You have deep expertise that companies need, but you haven't built the positioning, network, or materials to be found and hired. Immediate focus on foundational positioning work is essential.

Ready to Close Your Readiness Gap?

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