How can you use networking to find your dream Non-profit Management job?

If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the world, working in the non-profit sector can be a rewarding and meaningful career choice. However, finding your dream non-profit management job can be challenging, especially in a competitive and dynamic market. That's why networking is a crucial skill that can help you discover new opportunities, learn from experts, and showcase your value to potential employers. In this article, you will learn how to use networking to find your dream non-profit management job, with tips on how to build and maintain your professional relationships, how to leverage online platforms, and how to follow up effectively.

1 Define your goals

Before you start networking, you need to have a clear idea of what kind of non-profit management job you are looking for, and what skills and experiences you have to offer. This will help you identify and target the right people and organizations that align with your interests and values. You can start by researching the non-profit sector, the current trends and challenges, and the best practices and standards. You can also create a list of your ideal non-profit employers, and the roles and responsibilities you would like to have.

Add your perspective

Dola Mohapatra

Executive Director at Rise Against Hunger India leading CSR initiatives
(edited)
Report contribution
Honestly, it doesn't quite work this way. While the best way to get into a non-profit management position is through building a solid base by putting in some amount of work that's credible and dependable, it doesn't hurt to explore your way around and figure things out. That's where the network is helpful. One can't be too purposeful and target a particular set of non-profits to get in. Of course, beyond anything, the basic prerequisite is to first make up one's mind and check the motivation. Passion for making a difference, touching human lives in a tangible way, and putting others before self are the hallmarks of a non-profit worker, manager or leader. Without this, being too career focused can be frustrating after a certain years.

Like

2 Expand your network

Once you have defined your goals, you can start expanding your network by reaching out to people who work in the non-profit sector or have connections to it. You can ask for referrals from your existing network, such as friends, family, colleagues, mentors, or alumni. Additionally, you can attend events, workshops, webinars, or conferences related to the non-profit sector and introduce yourself to speakers, organizers, or participants. Joining online communities, groups, or forums that focus on the non-profit sector and engaging in discussions is also a great way to network. Furthermore, following and interacting with non-profit leaders, influencers, or organizations on social media can be helpful. Lastly, volunteering, interning, or consulting for a non-profit organization that interests you is an excellent way to build relationships with the staff, board, or donors.

Add your perspective

3 Nurture your relationships

Networking is not a one-time activity, but a long-term process that requires consistent and genuine communication. To nurture your relationships with your contacts, you should follow up regularly, provide value, and show appreciation. This could be done by sending a thank-you note or email after meeting or talking to someone, expressing your interest in staying in touch. You could also share relevant information, resources, or opportunities that might benefit your contacts, or ask for their feedback or advice on something related to the non-profit sector. Congratulating your contacts on their achievements, milestones, or recognitions, as well as celebrating their birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays are also great ways to show appreciation. Additionally, inviting your contacts to join you for a coffee chat, a lunch meeting, or a virtual call is another way to stay connected and update them on your progress, goals, or challenges. Finally, you could ask for referrals, introductions, or recommendations from your contacts if they are comfortable and willing to do so.

Add your perspective

Gregory Coffos

Director of Veterans Services @ County of Riverside | MBA; MAOL
Report contribution
I have always told anyone who will listen that in social services the most important thing you can do is Foster your relationships. Not only does it support your effort to better service one of your clients, but as you grow and develop in the industry you will always run across the same people and those people will remember your collaboration and your work ethic and that might lead to a better opportunity for you in general.

Like

4 Showcase your value

Networking is not only about requesting favors or opportunities, but also about exhibiting your value and potential as a non-profit manager. You need to demonstrate your value to your contacts by emphasizing your capabilities, successes, and interests. To do this, update your resume, cover letter, and online profiles to reflect your non-profit management qualifications, experiences, and aspirations. Additionally, create and share a portfolio, blog, podcast, or newsletter that displays your non-profit projects, initiatives, or insights. Offer to help with their non-profit goals or needs and show your initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Ask for feedback from contacts on how to improve your non-profit management skills or performance. Lastly, apply for non-profit management jobs that align with your goals, skills, and values and inform contacts about applications, interviews, or offers.

Add your perspective

5 Be professional and authentic

Networking is not only about what you do, but also how you do it. To be successful, you must be professional and authentic in your interactions and follow basic etiquette and best practices. This includes being respectful, courteous, and polite to everyone you meet; being honest and transparent about your intentions; being attentive, curious, and interested in your contacts; being proactive and responsive in communication; and being humble, grateful, and respectful of your contacts' time. With these tips in mind, networking can help you find your dream non-profit management job and build a strong professional network that can help you grow in your career. Keep in mind that networking is a habit that takes time to develop. The more you network, the more confident, comfortable, and effective you will become. So start networking today!

Add your perspective

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

Add your perspective

How can you use networking to find your dream Non-profit Management job?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Define your goals

2 Expand your network

3 Nurture your relationships

4 Showcase your value

5 Be professional and authentic

6 Here’s what else to consider

Nonprofit Management

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

More articles on Nonprofit Management

More relevant reading

How can you use networking to find your dream Non-profit Management job?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Define your goals

2 Expand your network

3 Nurture your relationships

4 Showcase your value

5 Be professional and authentic

6 Here’s what else to consider

Nonprofit Management

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

Explore Other Skills