How to Switch From the Private Sector to the Non-Profit Sector
Switching from a job in the private sector to one in the nonprofit arena can seem daunting. Nonprofit organizations have a different culture, style, and process than those in large private-sector corporations, and there are a number of tradeoffs involved. With research and preparation, the switch can be seamless and less surprising.
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Instructions
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First choose which type of nonprofit you'd like to work for. Are you interested in working with an organization that helps children, fight hunger or boosts Latin American relief groups? Domestic or international? Or, if you don't have a preference, choose a specific area within a nonprofit, such as marketing or development.
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Determine transferable skills. What skills from your past professional work experience will transfer to nonprofits? Some experience, such as marketing, writing and financial management, have clear nonprofit applications. If you work in an area that has no apparent connections to nonprofit work, consider skills such as project management, supervisory experience or customer relations.
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Emphasize any nonprofit experience. Even if your professional experience has been in the private sector, be sure that your resume lists any nonprofit experience: volunteering, committee work or experience on the board of a local group. Have you helped your child's school with fundraising? Assisted in the organizing of a local marathon?
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One of the most surprising things for sector switchers is the drop in salary. The majority of nonprofit organizations do not have a large budget so, for high-ranking employees in the private sector, the drop can be significant. Be sure that your finances can handle the changes and consider the tradeoffs you will get in return.
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Find your conviction. Nonprofit work tends to be less organized and, at times, the slow progress can be frustrating. To survive in the nonprofit work world, you must be steadfast in your belief in the organization's mission.
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Redo your resume to reflect any nonprofit experience and to emphasize transferable skills. Don't expect potential employers to draw connections. In your cover letter, emphasize how your private-sector experience will provide you an advantage in the nonprofit sector.
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Use websites like Idealist.org and craigslist.org, both of which list jobs in the nonprofit sector. For each job application, send a cover letter and resume tailored to the position.
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