Posted under Career Planning on May 15th, 2008
The dynamics of the workplace continue as we enter a period of economic uncertainty. While jobs may be available, these positions are frequently packaged in ways that are quite new, requiring greater flexibility by both employer and the employee. The onus for finding employment is largely, but not completely, left up to the job seekers themselves. The older notion of moving within a narrow band of job opportunities among companies is largely gone.
It is clear job seekers and career changer who master new job search strategies and develop skill in marketing themselves will have more options. They will be of more value to employers and better positioned for employment opportunities. For career changers non-profits can be an attractive option.
As with any profession, the work has its own set of challenges and frustrations. However, work satisfaction can also be huge, and many people have found very fruitful careers doing well by doing good. It is not uncommon for people to find their work passion initially as a volunteer, never recognizing this work can also offer career prospects. As an employee these positions offer opportunities to influence and contribute in ways that are impossible as a volunteer.
Since non-profits tend to be private, with focus on their mission, determining the practical elements important to a job search is more difficult, but still essential. It is important to understand the mission, to ensure compatibility with your interests. Is the staff small and totally dependent upon volunteers for fundraising, or is there a larger professional staff working with public and private firms to raise funds and pursue their mission? Either may be appropriate, but you have to determine that based on your own interests and values.
To what extent would you be responsible for fundraising? This is extremely important because fundraising represents the lifeblood of most non-profits, and the responsibilities are huge. Strong and aggressive organizational and planning skills are very transferable into a non-profit environment. If you are the type of dynamic person that likes objective measurements for job performance, fundraising may be very attractive. Also, fundraisers are highly prized.
Examine the programming and services to determine what new and creative ideas have been introduced. Is this an organization that seeks and values new ideas, new concepts, new programs? Is it looking to expand into new areas, or searching for better ways to deliver services to their current recipients? In the first instance creativity and innovative thinking is important, while in the second strong administrative skills may be more important.
Take a look at how the public views the organization. Non-profits like to do a lot of public outreach. Communications, media affairs, public speaking opportunities and related activities are often crucial elements of success. For someone who has experience in communications, either as a practitioner or a public speaker, these skills and experience can be extremely valuable. Skills in developing marketing communications material, advertising campaigns and promotional activities offer significant opportunities, particularly with non-profit groups that compete for funding from public solicitations.
If you have any type of computer background, look for the organizations involvement in technology. There have been dramatic successes by non-profits in reaching out to prospective donors through the Internet. Compiling lists, building databases and managing the process enables those who have these skills an opportunity to apply them in a totally different environment.
Finally, examine the organization carefully to ensure a match between your interests, skills, and values. Re-structure your marketing tools, create new messages and look for opportunities to gain exposure to the group. Remember, these organizations are also part of the hidden job market.
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