Nonprofits are some of the toughest employers. And this is even though the nonprofit sector employs about 10% of the entire American workforce. Unfortunately, it’s common knowledge that careers in nonprofits are challenging and can also feel like you’re treading water most of the time. For many nonprofits, it means organizations that are probably understaffed and perhaps even undersupported.
On top of that, most nonprofits operate on a shoestring budget. So, it seems they’re consistently looking for unique fundraising ideas. Still, many people would love to explore careers in nonprofits. Many people care about making a social impact. As a result, they would love the chance to work at a nonprofit.
However, no one wants to work at a nonprofit that plays by the old rules. In other words, younger generations aren’t looking to ‘suck it up’ and put in the time. They want to work for an organization that’s got it together in terms of its institutional capacity. And that’s a good thing. Nonprofits should get challenged to do better.
What’s holding back nonprofits from hiring more employees?
Unfortunately, the number one thing holding back nonprofits is themselves. Many organizations, in fact, the vast majority of them, have small budgets. Moreover, many leaders constantly seek to hire at the lowest possible cost. So, while keeping an eye on spending is a necessary part of any business—including nonprofits—not investing in the best keeps them treading water.
For instance, fundraising is a primary area that needs institutional capacity building. In other words, a strategic investment has to happen to raise money. So, that could mean hiring an outside consultant. Or it could mean hiring talent that has experience in fundraising. Moreover, nonprofit leaders need to allow the time and space to raise funds. Often, leaders get impatient and don’t allow the time to raise funds properly.
What can hold back jobseekers?
While nonprofits want talented professionals, many young professionals don’t want to leap into the sector. For one, they might feel uncertain about the outcomes and impact a nonprofit makes. The reason is that many nonprofits don’t do a good job of communicating their impact.
Second, many talented young people hear about the lack of resources at nonprofits. Some may get involved with the sector by volunteering, and if their volunteering experience turns out to be less than enthusiastic, they may decide against it. You see, people want thriving careers in organizations that show success. That’s why nonprofit leaders need to expand their resources and attract the best talent available.
Lastly, prospective employees want to know they’re entering a positive work environment. They want to feel empowered at work and connected with the organization’s goals. Job seekers may look for markers of an organization’s investment in employee engagement and satisfaction, such as:
- Professional development opportunities. Applicants want to know they’ll have opportunities to learn and grow in their new roles. Nonprofits that provide nonprofit-specific training and certifications, mentorship programs, and access to industry conferences and networking opportunities help their employees sharpen their skills and learn more about the sector.
- Team-building activities. When employees have the chance to get to know each other, they work better together. Organizations may host team lunches, work anniversary celebrations, or volunteer outings to bring team members together and allow them to connect more personally.
- Well-being initiatives. It’s easy for employees to become burnt out, especially in the nonprofit sector. Organizations that prioritize employee well-being stand out amongst applicants and produce more sustainable roles, leading to higher employee retention. Nonprofits may incorporate employee well-being into their practices by offering flexible work hours, hybrid or remote work options, and sick time.
- Employee testimonials. Often, the job application process involves organizations putting out a job description and interviewing job seekers. However, applicants can get a much better sense of the experience they’ll have at a nonprofit when organizations involve current employees in the hiring process. Whether nonprofits include employee testimonials in their outreach or offer a day-in-the-life interview with a current team member, it can help applicants understand the organization better when they hear from employees directly.
The recruitment process for any job can be overwhelming, but for nonprofit roles, it can open up a myriad of concerns among prospective employees. Those who are passionate about making a difference may feel held back by factors that are out of their control, causing them not to apply or to seek out opportunities in another sector.
How to overcome the shortage of careers in nonprofits
If you want to look into careers in nonprofits, you can do some things to maximize your chances as an employee prospect.
Be flexible and adaptive
First, you want to look at the nonprofit sector with a flexible and adaptive eye. Although you may want to work at a nonprofit that addresses poverty, they might not have the capacity you need or want. So, think carefully about what’s of interest to you. For instance, consider all the areas you could consider working (e.g., education, healthcare, environment).
In reality, some areas pay more than others and invest more in their organizations. For example, schools, environmental organizations, and hospitals tend to have more funds. As a result, they tend to pay better. That said, your salary may not be a motivating factor. In that case, you could look at smaller nonprofits.
Networking is key
Many job seekers in nonprofit organizations struggle to find the right job opportunities. This struggle happens because they don’t know which nonprofit organizations to approach for job openings and which industries to focus on in job hunting. One of the best things you can do in this situation is to get involved in your local volunteer or community group.
Volunteering for even a few days allows you to get to know people within an organization. As a result, you could speak to them about your interest and get guidance. Moreover, it also gives you a sense of whether or not it’s a place (or areas) you’d like to work. For instance, look at the National Council of Nonprofits for volunteering resources.
Finding opportunities in the nonprofit sector
In sum, the nonprofit sector is a great place to work. However, you should be ready to do more work than in the for-profit sector when looking for the right opportunity. For example, if you want a competitive salary, it may mean finding a job in the education or healthcare industry.
Further, it also means getting out there and getting to know people. The more people you meet and talk to, the greater the opportunities you provide yourself to find the right nonprofit. Also, look at volunteering to get to know an organization. The sector needs passionate and driven people looking to disrupt the space—and it could be you.
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