Careers in the Non Profit Sector

There are quite a few people with jobs that are not as rewarding that they would like them to be. Most of us keep weighing other options and avenues to expose our creativity. At the same time, we keep looking for opportunities to reach out and touch the lives of the needy.

If this is your desire, then it may be worth considering a career in the non-profit sector. Anyone can volunteer for non-profit work and in return gain not only experience, but respect and peace of mind as well. It shows one's willingness to contribute positively to society. The work could involve environment protection, volunteering, experimenting with food, caring for the handicapped or a keen approach towards reforming local politics. You should follow some of the tips listed below before considering the non-profit sector as a career option.

Find A Job That Suits You It is encouraging to note that a multitude of options are available in the non-profit sector. You can start as a volunteer and then slowly steer your way towards your field of interest. The other option is to let your interests in a particular field guide you right from the start.

Gather Information Refer to books, websites, magazines and newspapers and any other material you can identify. Meet people already working in your chosen field and ask about their experiences. Develop a deep understanding of the various types of nonprofit organizations and focus on the human-services charities. Analyze What Skills You Have If you are already working, analyze the skills you have learned from your workplace. Use those to the best of your ability in your current workplace. Often, people seeking placement in the non-profit sector have a feeling that they do not possess the skills required for the job.

This is a general misconception and you should have confidence in yourself and the abilities you already have. Be Practical About Salary While you may not always be offered a good salary, there is no harm in negotiating with the employer. Generally, non-profit organizations know that they cannot offer a very attractive salary and therefore provide various other perks such as travel allowances, maternity leave and post retirement benefits. These add-ons compensate for the low monetary benefit and in turn secure your post-retirement options.

Realize Your Responsibilities In the non-profit sector, you tend to shoulder much more responsibility than in the private sector. You also have a responsibility towards society, your organization and yourself. Always keep in focus the intention with which you opted for the career change. Once you have selected your job and start working, remember that you are making a difference in the lives of many people, while at the same time earning a living for yourself. You can inspire those around you to take up similar placements as well. A career in the non-profit sector can make the art of earning a living while exploring personal resources more meaningful.

Tony Jacowski is a quality analyst for The MBA Journal. Aveta Solution's Six Sigma Online offers online six sigma training and certification classes for lean six sigma, black belts, green belts, and yellow belts.