How to Get a Non Profit Job

Non profit workers are often working for a higher cause.

Working for a non profit organization can be a very rewarding career choice. In some cases, you can choose an occupation that improves a population or a cause you care about. Working in the non profit sector is different than working in the public sector, and when you choose this career path, you should be motivated partly by your desire to improve society and less by making lots of money.

Instructions

1. Figure out which area of the non profit sector you want to work in. If you have business skills, this can help guide your decision. Some examples include marketing, law, human resources, finance, accounting and program management. Those who do not have business skills can still be trained in fundraising, event planning and administration.

2. Decide the type of population or cause you want to work with. You might be interested in working with the homeless, children, the elderly or animal populations; or you might care about causes like breast cancer awareness, youth development or animal rights.

3. Use professional networking to get a non profit job. While passion for the cause will help you be more satisfied with your career choice, ultimately getting the job is often about who you know. Use any professional contacts you have and tell everyone you know that you're looking for a job in the non profit sector. Creating a profile on LinkedIn and other social networking sites can also help you get your name out there to prospective non profit leaders in your community.

4. Edit your resume to fit your new career path. When looking for a job with a non profit, your resume should highlight your relevant experience. Explain any job duties you had that relate to the type of non profit positions you're applying for. Also, add a section to your resume for volunteer work. Showing you're involved in the community is favorable with nonprofit jobs. If you don't have a lot of volunteer work, choose an organization and start volunteering now.

5. Research the non profit organizations you apply to. When going in for an interview, you will be expected to discuss the non profit's mission statement, programs and impact on the community.

6. Practice answering interview questions that might come up. Non profit jobs pay less and often demand that you take on more roles and work with fewer resources than jobs in the private sector. Be prepared to talk about how you will handle these challenges and why working for a non profit is the right choice for your career.

References

• DRG Executive Search Consultants: Looking for Work in the Nonprofit Sector: David E. Edell