The Directors Register allows companies to search a data base of individuals who are willing to consider outside board seats. Outside board membership involves time, study and travel, finding first class directors willing to make the commitment is difficult. Executives in operating positions rarely have the time and, in some cases, their own boards forbid outside board membership. Therefor, finding a competent outside director who will play well with investors or shareholders is difficult. First, forget about friends or relatives.
Outside directors are exactly that, outside the influence of company management.
Next, it is helpful, but not necessary, to find a candidate who has a knowledge of your business and industry. Most experienced business people can get up to speed quickly. Lastly, it is always advantageous to have at least one signature director whose background, career and reputation is well known and who can both provide advice and consul as well as help you attract other first class directors. Signature director are very hard to find, usually expensive but invaluable to the make-up of an outside board. The Directors Register gives a company a leg up in the search for outside directors.