Is a Career in a Nonprofit Organization Right for You?

Q. What is a nonprofit, and what does it do?

Nonprofit organizations are designed to impact a particular group or community by meeting an identified need. Typically these organizations are community-based and focus on serving under-served populations. A career in a nonprofit organization is a good fit for women who want to make social changes and take on a leadership role. So whether you are just starting out in your career, or already doing an executive job search, considering a nonprofit career may be right for you.

Nonprofits often fill in gaps and provide resources to people who are not able to access services through for-profits. The councilofnonprofits.org shares that nonprofits include groups providing food and shelter, assistance in times of disaster, services for children and the elderly, and much more. Other NTEE classifications include arts organizations (9.9 percent), education groups (17.1 percent), nonprofits focused on health – from finding cures to providing mental health services (13 percent), community and civil rights groups (11.6 percent), religion-related organizations (6.1 percent), environmental and animal protection groups (4.5 percent), and those focused on international development and human rights (2.1 percent). This means there are lots of nonprofit career opportunities.

Q. How do women find careers with nonprofit organizations?

Nonprofits serve a broad range of needs and missions, therefore, this creates many career opportunities for women. Staffing in nonprofit organizations includes direct care providers, administrative and support staff in addition to managerial and executive leadership roles. Women are also creating and leading more nonprofit organizations. Sites like Idealist.org focus on careers in the nonprofit sector. Women can also find information on internships, volunteer opportunities, and different organizations. Looking at job postings and doing an executive job search is a good way to research what education and experience you will need in different sectors.

Q. What degrees do women need to work in nonprofit management?

Being a volunteer or intern in High School and College gives young girls and women a chance to learn more about nonprofit work. Since there are various roles available, entry-level positions allow women to get experience while earning a paycheck. A Bachelors Degree and higher, or a professional license, may be necessary for some roles. For women that want to move into a nonprofit management career, topnonprofits.com provides a list of degree programs across the US.

Q. What are the benefits and challenges of a nonprofit career?

Working in the nonprofit sector can be both exciting and also challenging. You can have a positive impact on other people’s lives, which is very rewarding and needed. It’s motivating to help other people and communities. However, agencies can face staffing challenges and a lack of resources that contribute to tensions at work. Being able to handle common workplace conflicts effectively is key to avoiding burnout and having job satisfaction. So in addition to considering what types of jobs you want, you want to understand the talents, skills you’ll need and what type of professional development can be pivotal to thriving in your career.

Women are the majority of the workforce in nonprofit organizations. But there is still a gap in pay and opportunities for women at the leadership level. As a result, it’s even more important that women are building networks and have access to resources throughout their careers. Having mentors and working with an executive coach can support women in their professional growth. If you’re looking for support around meeting your goals and moving up in your nonprofit career or progressing in your executive job search, schedule a free 30-minute consultation here so we can discuss how I can support you.

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