How to get into nonprofit work: The complete guide to success

If you’re looking for meaningful work that makes an impact, a career in the nonprofit sector might be a good fit for you. Even if you don’t have previous experience working in a nonprofit, there are ways that you can break into this space. 

We’ll show you how to get into nonprofit work and turn your passions into a rewarding career.

What is nonprofit work?

A nonprofit is a mission-driven organization working to solve a problem or serve the public good. Nonprofits exist in many areas, such as education, healthcare, social services, and environmental protection.

Unlike private companies, nonprofits don’t aim to make profits. Instead, a nonprofit invests its income back into the organization to continue its mission, according to the US Chamber of Commerce.

While these organizations don’t distribute profits, they do hire people for their operations just like a private business. Some common nonprofit jobs include:

• Development (fundraising) manager or coordinator

• Program manager or coordinator

• Volunteer manager or coordinator

• Community outreach coordinator

• Communications specialist

• Grant writer

• Event planner

• Finance manager

Is nonprofit work right for me?

Nonprofit work can be a great choice if you’re passionate about supporting a cause or making a difference. Many people find fulfillment in doing work that matters to them. 

Additionally, nonprofit employees often share similar values and passions. Working closely with like-minded people can make your workdays more enjoyable and fulfilling.

How to get into nonprofit work for a career

Getting a job in a nonprofit organization isn’t that much different from applying to a for-profit company. However, there are some key differences that you should know. 

Here’s how to get into nonprofit work and find your first job in the field:

1. Know your passions

A nonprofit’s mission doesn’t need to be your life’s sole passion, but you should have some knowledge or interest in its central mission. Start by making a list of the causes or issues that matter to you. 

Are you passionate about protecting the environment? Do you have a deep love for animals? Identifying your passions can guide your job search in the nonprofit sector.

Not sure what your passions are? Check out our Career Assessment tool to learn about jobs that are a good fit for your interests and strengths.

2. Do your research

Once you know your passions, begin researching organizations with similar missions or goals. Go online to find nonprofits in your community or region. Visit their websites to learn about their organizational structures, employees, company values, and mission statements.

As part of your research, pay attention to the language that nonprofits use to describe their work and impact. If you’ve only worked in the private sector, you may be unfamiliar with terms like “pledge” or “constituents.” Familiarize yourself with this language as you learn more about the nonprofit industry.

3. Connect with mission-driven people

Networking can go a long way toward getting your foot in the door with a nonprofit. Attend local events where you might meet nonprofit professionals. You can also follow organizations on social media and engage with their content.

If you know someone who works for a nonprofit, ask if you can do an informational interview with them. During this meeting, you can ask questions about how they got into the field and what advice they would give to someone just starting out.

4. Gain experience or volunteer

Even if you’ve never worked in a nonprofit before, there are ways you can gain relevant experience for your resume. Reach out to nonprofits and ask about volunteer opportunities. Most organizations gladly welcome volunteers to help with different areas, such as fundraising, marketing, or event planning.

Some nonprofits also offer internships. If you’re a current student or a recent graduate, an internship can be a great way to get some real-world experience before starting down your new career path.

5. Focus on transferable skills

Working in the nonprofit sector doesn’t mean that you need to build a whole new set of skills. Many skills, including those from the corporate world, are valuable in nonprofit work.

Think about the transferable skills you have that can be useful in a nonprofit job. For example, your project management skills may allow you to coordinate fundraising campaigns or manage programs.

6. Search on specialty boards

Many nonprofits advertise open positions on traditional job boards, but you may not find every opportunity listed there. It’s also common for nonprofit organizations to post jobs on specialty boards. 

Idealist is a good resource for finding nonprofit jobs across the United States. There are also specialty boards for different missions or communities. For example, the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance Job Bank lists openings in arts organizations, museums, community centers, and other similar nonprofits. 

Research specialty job boards in your region or area of interest. Check these sites regularly or set up alerts to learn about new openings quickly.

7. Update your resume

Before applying for a nonprofit job, take some time to update your resume. Highlight your volunteer experience, transferable skills, and other relevant information, such as any personal passion projects related to an organization’s mission.

As much as possible, focus on the ways that you’ve made positive changes and contributions in other roles. Nonprofits value impact and want to know how you can make a difference in their organization.

8. Consider continuing education

If you’re struggling to figure out how to get into nonprofit work with your first job, consider first expanding your skills with continuing education. For example, you can take a grant writing course or get a fundraising certification.

While it’s not necessary for every nonprofit job, earning a degree in a relevant area, like nonprofit management or public administration, may also boost your chances of getting hired.

Ready to find the perfect nonprofit job? Use career.io’s advanced Job Search platform to save jobs, get recommendations, and track your progress—all in one place!

Key takeaways

1. Nonprofit work involves being part of an organization that aims to solve a problem or advocate for a cause.

2. Working for a nonprofit may be a good fit if you’re passionate about a specific issue or if you want to make a difference through your work.

3. When looking to get your first job in nonprofit work, do your research, network, and know where you want to apply. Find ways to gain relevant experience for your resume—such as through volunteering, internships, or courses—and highlight your transferable skills.