What do you do if your nonprofit leadership internship isn't aligning with your career goals?

1 Assess Fit

When you notice a misalignment between your internship and your career goals, start by assessing the fit . Consider the skills you're developing , the network you're building , and the knowledge you're gaining. Are they transferable to your desired career path? Sometimes, the fit isn't immediately obvious, but with a deeper analysis, you might uncover valuable aspects of your internship that do contribute to your long-term objectives. Reflect on the mission of the organization and how it resonates with your personal values and professional interests.

2 Seek Feedback

It's crucial to seek feedback from your supervisors and peers. Discuss your career goals with them and express your concerns regarding the alignment with the internship. They may offer insights or opportunities within the organization that are better suited to your aspirations. Feedback can also come from a mentor or a professional in your desired field. Their perspective can help you see how your current role could be a stepping stone to your ideal job or what changes you might need to make.

3 Explore Options

Exploring options within the organization can be a game-changer. Look for projects or departments that align more closely with where you want to go. Don't hesitate to propose a new project that fits both the organization's needs and your skill development goals. If there's no room for such adjustments, consider looking for additional opportunities outside of the internship, like volunteer work or part-time positions, that can fill in the gaps.

4 Enhance Skills

Focus on enhancing the skills that are critical for your desired career path. If your internship doesn't provide opportunities to develop these skills, take the initiative to seek out resources such as online courses, workshops, or even books. By proactively developing these skills, you'll not only make yourself more marketable for future roles but also may find ways to apply your new knowledge to improve processes or projects at your current internship.

5 Network Smartly

Networking is a powerful tool in any career development strategy. Use your time at the internship to build relationships with professionals in your field of interest. Attend events, join relevant groups, and connect with individuals on professional social media platforms. These connections can provide valuable advice, introduce you to opportunities, and support your career growth long after the internship has ended.

6 Reflect Regularly

Regular reflection is essential for ensuring that you're on the right track. Set aside time to evaluate what you've learned, how you've grown, and where you need to focus moving forward. Reflect on the feedback you've received and how you've applied it. This ongoing process will help you stay aligned with your career goals and make the most of every opportunity, even when it's not a perfect fit.