What do you do if you want to expand your professional network through non-profit management internships?

1 Identify your interests and goals

Before you start looking for non-profit management internships, you need to have a clear idea of what kind of organizations, causes, and roles you are interested in. This will help you narrow down your options and focus your search on the most relevant and meaningful opportunities. Think about what issues you are passionate about, what skills you want to develop, and what kind of impact you want to make. You can also research different types of non-profit organizations, such as foundations, advocacy groups, service providers, or social enterprises, and see which ones align with your values and vision.

2 Research and network

Once you have identified your interests and goals, you can start researching and networking with potential non-profit employers and mentors. You can use online platforms, such as Idealist, Indeed, or LinkedIn, to find and follow non-profit organizations that offer internships in your area of interest. You can also join online communities, forums, or groups related to non-profit management or your specific cause, and participate in discussions, events, or webinars. Additionally, you can reach out to your existing contacts, such as professors, classmates, alumni, or friends, who work or volunteer in the non-profit sector, and ask for referrals, recommendations, or advice.

3 Prepare and customize your application

After you have found some non-profit management internships that match your interests and goals, you need to prepare and customize your application materials, such as your resume, cover letter, and portfolio. You want to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements, and demonstrate your enthusiasm and fit for the organization and the role. You also want to tailor your application to each specific internship, and show that you have done your research and understand the mission, vision, and values of the non-profit. Moreover, you want to showcase your personality and creativity, and make your application stand out from the crowd.

4 Follow up and follow through

Once you have submitted your application, you need to follow up and follow through with the non-profit organization. You can send a thank-you email to the person who received your application, and express your interest and appreciation. You can also check the status of your application, and ask if there is anything else you need to provide or do. If you get invited for an interview, you need to prepare well, and practice your answers to common and specific questions. You also need to follow up after the interview, and send another thank-you email, and restate your interest and qualifications.

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?