Selfnomination

Self-nomination is the act of nominating oneself for a position, award, or other formal recognition rather than relying on another person to nominate. It can occur in political, corporate, academic, and nonprofit settings and is common for roles such as board seats, committee leadership, student government, and various professional recognitions.

Procedures vary widely: many organizations require a formal nomination form, a personal statement or résumé, and endorsements or signatures; some invite petitions from supporters; others may include interviews or short essays. Deadlines and eligibility criteria are defined in official guidelines, and nominees may be asked to disclose conflicts of interest.

Advantages and considerations: Self-nomination can demonstrate initiative, help bring attention to under-recognized individuals, and ensure opportunities for those who might be overlooked. It also gives candidates control over their narrative. Conversely, it can be perceived as self-serving or less credible in contexts that value third-party nominations, and some bodies may limit or discount self-nominated candidates to preserve perceived impartiality.

Best practices: verify rules, ensure eligibility, and craft a concise, evidence-based statement of qualifications. Include relevant experience, goals for the role, and how they align with the organization’s objectives. Obtain appropriate endorsements if required, but avoid excessive campaigning. Be transparent about any conflicts of interest.

See also: nomination, elections, board governance.