Non-Profit Job Search Guide: Finding Meaningful Work
Choose the right job that mirrors your intrinsic values and ethos
Most of us want to do the right thing in our personal lives. We have a conscience when it comes to looking after the vulnerable, donating to a favorite charity, or recycling plastic bottles. We know that our world and the people in it are precious, so it’s worth looking after these resources and qualities with care.
Job search non-profit organizations (NPOs)
But what if you want to go that step further and include those values in your professional life… even make a career out of it?
Well, you can, by entering into the world of non-profit companies. And the great thing about this is you might not even have to re-train or completely change what you do already. What’s not to like?
In this article, we’ll explore non-profit organizations, the differences between them and not-for-profit companies, and how to job search for non-profit roles. Expert tips and guidance will also be provided throughout.
What is a non-profit organization with examples?
First of all, let’s delve into the definition of what a non-profit organization is — and answer “What do you mean by NPO?”
It’s a legal institution that operates for social, public, or collective benefit without making a profit while being able to exist mainly through donations. These types of companies offer a range of services, including education, health, social services, and the arts, while varying hugely in size, from local charities in your town to huge international companies.
Forbes has compiled the 100 largest charities in the US, with Feeding America topping the list and including household names such as the Salvation Army, Samaritan’s Purse, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
According to a survey from 2021, the sector has been hit with staffing shortages, with 63% of non-profit organizations suffering from this. This means that if you want to job search for non-profit companies, it’s time to get on with it and grab the opportunity.
Expert Tip
It helps if you’re passionate about the company and its values before applying, as this will get you further down the line in the job search process.
Differences between non-profit and not-for-profit organizations
You might think they’re the same thing, but they’re not.
Non-profits:
Benefit the greater good, particularly the public sector for the general population.
Exist for a unique charitable purpose.
Can have a separate legal entity.
Not-for-profits:
Fulfill an owner’s organizational goals and objectives.
Focus on benefits for members.
Cannot have a separate legal entity.
Pros and cons
If you’re ready to job search for non-profit organizations, take a peek at the pros and cons of working in this field first.
Pros
Serving people and the community, making life better for everyone.
Diverse working environment.
Sense of value and self-fulfillment.
Coworkers who are more engaged in their jobs as they’re not just working there for the money.
Increased collaboration.
Cons
Lower salary than in other sectors.
Having to depend on funding and donations.
Limited resources and tech.
Dealing with bureaucracy.
9 tips on how to job search for non-profit positions
Ignite your passion
When job searching for non-profit roles, you need to first consider what it is that motivates you and sparks a feeling that you have to follow.
Are you enthusiastic about conserving nature?
Does finding a cure for cancer drive you forward?
Whatever it is, you need to hone in on the social cause you believe in, as this can improve your job satisfaction and work ethic.
Build on your skills
While there are non-profit jobs that relate to pretty much every sector out there, it’s worth seeking out more relevant qualifications to improve your chances. Let’s say you’re skilled in auditing and financial management. You might put those skills to good use by pursuing a non-profit role for a company within their finance department.
Expert Tip
It’s not just hard skills that are invaluable these days, so develop those transferable traits, such as effective communication, organization, and teamwork.
Identify entry-level roles or internships
If you’re not 100% certain that you have the right skills, there’s no shame in going in at a lower level. Any internship or entry-level position could help get your foot in the door and eventually lead to a full-time job. Whilst there, you can nurture the skills required while cultivating productive and meaningful relationships with employees already working for the organization.
Take on a voluntary role
If there are no openings at your chosen non-profit organization, offer your services for free if this is feasible for you and your circumstances. Because there are no profits to be had, these types of companies rely heavily on volunteers to help support projects and operations. Not only is it rewarding in itself, but it’ll show bosses at the company that you mean business and are passionate about the cause they’re trying to improve.
Expert Tip
If no jobs are forthcoming, ask for a letter of recommendation so you can at least take that to your next interview or new role.
Expand your network
Ask around if anyone in your current network has connections with the particular non-profit that you want to work for. Alternatively, you could hook into forums for that sector on social media platforms or join a professional association. Other ways are to take relevant courses and/or workshops or attend any events that the non-profit is holding.
Customize your resume and cover letter
As with any role, it’s vital that you tailor your resume every time you apply. This goes for the cover letter as well. Personalizing your resume to the job at hand proves you’re interested as you’ve taken the care and attention to show how job-ready you are for that particular role. Make it relevant to the position by including any voluntary work that relates to the non-profit, especially if you’re new to the sector.
Expert Tip
Proofread, proofread, and proofread. You don’t want to send in an application with any mistakes. Get a trusted colleague or friend to look at it as well, as a fresh pair of eyes can spot something that you might have previously skimmed over.
Request an informational interview
Once you’ve connected with someone in the right sector, ask if you can conduct an informational interview. This is a get-together where you learn more about the organization and types of jobs. Look at it as a fact-finding mission, where you can discover details about career opportunities and the qualifications required. Make sure beforehand that you’ve compiled a comprehensive list of questions to ask.
Grasp the inner workings of the non-profit
This leads to understanding the structure of the non-profit and can tell you the best way to approach the people inside the organization. If they don’t have a dedicated HR department, which many non-profits don’t, you can find out who the best person to address your cover letter to is so it lands on their desk and not some random one.
Say thank you
A simple tip, but so welcomed by the receiver. It takes no time at all to send a thank you message and will place you in the good books of the person you’re thanking. Include those who gave you valid insights during an informational interview, any new connections you’ve made, and anyone who invited you to a non-profit event. Not only will it demonstrate your commitment to their cause, but it will also showcase how professional and gracious you are as a potential employee.
Get job-search ready
Following the above advice will set you on the right road to securing a non-profit role. If you’re looking for a non-profit job with no experience, focus on aiming for entry-level roles, internships, or volunteering. Try to gain as much experience as you can before applying for roles, as this will give you a better chance of getting an in.
Ready to undertake a job search for non-profit businesses? Your resume needs to be job-search-ready. ZipJob’s free resume review tool can help with that. Just upload your resume into the tool, and find out how to improve it no end!
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Written by
Elizabeth Openshaw, Editor & Content Writer, Elizabeth Openshaw, Editor & Content Writer
Elizabeth Openshaw is an Elite CV Consultant with over 12 years of experience based in Brighton, UK, with an English degree and an addiction to Wordle! She is a former Journalist of 17 years with the claim to fame that she interviewed three times Grand Slam winner and former World No.1 tennis player, Andy Murray, when he was just 14 years old. You can connect with her at Elizabeth Openshaw | LinkedIn.
