by Sarah James

Created on: June 28, 2010

Working for a nonprofit organization offers intrinsic rewards, like knowing one has helped alleviate suffering or provided a basic necessity for someone in need.  For people who want to make a difference in the world, a nonprofit position can be a way to follow their passion and provide themselves a living at the same time.  However, the sector is small and well-connected, making it difficult for someone outside the nonprofit to be hired.  Volunteer work is one of the best ways to break into the nonprofit sector, as it provides experience and builds a network of people who can provide information about possible job openings and opportunities.    

Nonprofit organizations tend to funnel a majority of their finances back into the organization for use to continue programs and services that fulfill their mission.  As such, paid positions in nonprofits tend to be positions of necessity and no more, creating a low supply of jobs with a high demand.  Additionally, nonprofits tend not to search outside their numbers for job applicants, choosing instead to hire from a pool of volunteers and known individuals associated with the sector.    

As such, “whom you know” is important to breaking into the nonprofit sector, and volunteering is the way to go.  Consistent volunteer work is actually one of the best ways to build a network and get a permanent position at a nonprofit organization.  Proving that one is willing to donate time without compensation not only demonstrates a passion for the mission, but it also familiarizes the leaders of the organization with one’s capabilities.  When the employees know what a volunteer can and will do, they can suggest that volunteer for open positions and other opportunities that eventually result in being hired. 

As mentioned above, volunteering can build a network of people already employed in nonprofits who know the volunteer’s abilities, interests, and work ethic.  Additionally, volunteering builds a resume and a reference list, demonstrating community involvement and providing a list of people who will sing one’s praises. 

Another way to get experience in the nonprofit sector is formal schooling.  Degrees in nonprofit management, fundraising and public relations, and public administration all carry a focus of working for the nonprofit sector.  Not only that, but any educational experience connects interested

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>