Choosing to work in the 501c3 nonprofit world is a simple choice once you’ve read about the benefits of working for one, so now how do you choose which one to work with? There are some criteria that are a little different than the for-profit employment you’re used to, so it’s important to consider previous volunteering experience, special skills you possess and the pay they’re offering – it is a job, after all. Work with these considerations and weigh each one carefully so you can find the perfect 501c3 to work for.
Previous Volunteering
It is a common fact that nonprofits prefer to hire people who have previous experience, either voluntary or paid, in the nonprofit world. Previous volunteering experience can also help you choose which type of work you’d rather go into. If you’ve enjoyed working in soup kitchens, you may consider a nonprofit like The Salvation Army, or a similar organization. You may even consider applying to the organization you’ve volunteered for, knowing you have a better chance of landing the job with that experience and your other skills added in.
Special Skills
The importance of weighing your skills against different jobs in the nonprofit sector can’t be over-emphasized. For example, a particularly special interest or skill with working with women and children may direct you to a women’s center for battered women and children. Alternatively, if you especially do not have a skill with animals or medical situations, you’ll want to avoid Humane Society and The Red Cross. Look at your skills and match them up with an organization you love and respect, and that may be your choice for which nonprofit organization to work for. Remember though that this is a job, and you’ll have to work here every day, and choose accordingly.
Pay
In the world of nonprofits, the idea of getting paid for your work is somewhat contradictory, but still true. Nonprofit organizations are still businesses that need employees, and you are still someone looking for gainful employment that you can live off. Negotiate and research payment rates at different organizations before you make your choice. Don’t worry that you are negotiating for pay with a nonprofit organization – money has to be spent in order to raise enough to follow through with the organization’s mission, and steady reliable employees are who make the organization run. Work through the issue of pay with confidence and high expectations.
Working for a nonprofit organization can bring so many benefits – worthy beneficial work, the opportunity for benefit and advancement within the organization, and more. It’s important then to choose a nonprofit that you can work with for some time. Your contribution to the business will create more opportunity for the nonprofit to do good in the community, area or even the world, and you should take pride in that. Make sure it is an organization you are comfortable with, and then enjoy your job!
Nonprofit Legal Center offers tips and resources for you to learn more about how to start a 501c3 and 501c3 nonprofit organizations.