How do you tailor your development associate resume to different types of organizations and sectors?

1 Know your audience

Before you start writing your resume, do some research on the organization and sector you are targeting. What is their mission, vision, and values? What are their fundraising goals and strategies? What are their donor segments and preferences? How do they communicate their impact and outcomes? Knowing your audience will help you align your resume with their priorities and language.

2 Highlight your relevant skills and accomplishments

Your resume should demonstrate that you have the skills and experience to perform the tasks and responsibilities of a development associate. Depending on the organization and sector, these may include research, prospecting, cultivation, stewardship, grant writing, event planning, database management, reporting, and more. Use bullet points to highlight your specific achievements and results in each of these areas, using numbers and metrics whenever possible. For example, you can mention how much you raised, how many donors you engaged, how many grants you secured, how many events you organized, etc.

3 Customize your summary and objective

Your summary and objective are the first sections that recruiters will read on your resume, so make them count. Your summary should summarize your qualifications and value proposition as a development associate, while your objective should state your career goals and how they align with the organization and sector you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases that match the job description and the organization's culture and vision. For example, if you are applying for a development associate position at an environmental nonprofit, you can use words like sustainability, conservation, advocacy, etc.

4 Showcase your education and training

Your education and training section should highlight your relevant academic and professional credentials as a development associate. Depending on the organization and sector, you may need to include your degree, diploma, certificate, or course in fundraising, nonprofit management, communications, or related fields. You may also want to mention any memberships, affiliations, or certifications that demonstrate your commitment and expertise in the field. For example, if you are a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), you can include that on your resume.

5 Format your resume for readability and impact

Your resume should be easy to read and scan for recruiters who may only spend a few seconds on each application. Use a clear and consistent format, font, and layout for your resume, and avoid clutter and unnecessary information. Use headings, subheadings, bullet points, and white space to organize your resume and highlight your key points. Use action verbs, power words, and positive language to showcase your skills and achievements. Proofread your resume for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and make sure it is tailored to each organization and sector you apply for.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?