How to Find a Job Working for a Nonprofit

How to Find a Job Working for a NonprofitHow to Find a Job Working for a NonprofitIts often said that it takes a special type of employee to work in the nonprofit sector. The hours are long, the pay usually isnt so competitive, and therbeie are a lot of challenges to take on each and every day. That said, those who do work in nonprofit jobs enjoy the reward of knowing that their work is changing the world for the better. How to Begin Your Nonprofit Job Search If youre interested in working in the nonprofit world, here are a few ideas to get youstarted. It may take some time and networking, but in the end, itll be worth it. Start VolunteeringTo a non-profit employer, your volunteer experience is a clear indication of the time and effort youre willing to put in to make a difference. If you dont have any volunteer experience, look for opportunities in your area and ?start volunteeringas soon as possible.If you do have volunteer experience, make sure you emphasize it in your titelbil d letter and resume.Once you find a volunteer position that suits you, put your best foot forward. Take the initiative and ask for more work if you find yourself with downtime.Participate in community activities and fundraising events. Recruit other volunteers. In other words, go above and beyond to demonstrate your passion for the work. This could lead to a job within the organization and will also garner you somegood reference material when you start applying for jobs. When It Comes to Volunteering, Dont Spread Yourself Too ThinGenerally, in terms of your volunteer work, quality is better than quantity. Being focused on one organization or type of volunteer activity is better than trying to join every volunteer group possible.Instead of doing short stints at a variety of organizations, stick with one and try to work your way up. Doing this could even lead to a paid role, but regardless, a leadership position looks great on your resume, demonstrating your drive and dedication to th e company and the cause. That Said, Make Sure You Present Yourself as a Well-Rounded CandidateAlthough you should focus your volunteer efforts, try to develop a wide range of professional and personal skills, too. For example, are you an English major who can speak Spanish? A top-notch communicator who also has some web design tricks up her sleeve? An accountant with a knack for digital photography?If you have any of these, or similar, skills, emphasize them in your titelbild letter. Nonprofits dont always have the fattest of bank accounts if anything, its usually quite the opposite socandidates who can wear many hats (and wear them well) are highly sought after. So, show off your full skillset. Consider an InternshipIf youre a student, a recent graduate, or in the midst of a career change, you might want toconsider finding an internshipat a nonprofit organization. An internship can have better-paid employment prospects than volunteering and can also involve more interesting work than volunteering.Look OnlineIn addition to thebroad-scope employment listings sitesyou should be using in which you can search for nonprofit jobs you can also check out job search sites specifically created for nonprofit job listings.Take a look atIdealist,Dot Org Jobs, and the Career Center at theNonprofit Times. Check Nonprofits Official Websites for Job OpeningsIn addition to using search engines, many nonprofits list employment opportunities on their own websites, which you can usually find on a Careers or Get Involved page. Applying directly is a good way to show youre staying updated with the organization via their online presence.Start LocalMany large nonprofits have smaller, regional offices that might be the bestplace to start out. For example, ifyoure interested in working with Planned Parenthood, applying for a volunteer position or a job at their center within your local area is a good stepping stone if you dont have prior experience working at a nonprofit. Make Sure Your Application Materials Are StellarAlthough the application process to work at a nonprofit might not be ascut-throat as the pathway to a major PR firm or finance company, the job market is competitive in general. Its always important to make sure yourcover letter is compelling and typo-free, yourresume is flawless, and that you areproperly prepared for your interview.