Moving to the Not-For-Profit Sector
McLaren Recruitment
As a specialist recruitment and HR consulting company we pride ourselves on delivering results, not surprises.
Non-Profit, not-for-profit, NFP, NGO – it may go by many names but working in the for-purpose sector can be incredibly rewarding, full of great people, worthy causes and a wide variety of role types and opportunities. However, making the switch from other sectors can bring its own challenges – here’s what you need to know before transitioning into the non-profit world!
Find and show your ‘Why’:
Before you start looking for roles and opportunities in the non-profit sector, take some time to identify your skills and passions. Non-profit organisations and NGOs are mission-driven, so they seek employees who’re passionate about their causes. Because they’re so mission-driven, this can require a bit of a mindset change for job seekers coming from the private sector who may be used to working to financial targets, and the public sector where neutrality is encouraged. You’ll find many people in the non-profit world who’re extremely passionate about the cause they’re working towards and don’t mind letting you know about it!
Take the time to reflect on your skills and interests and how they can be applied to the non-profit sector. Virtually any role that exists in the for-profit world has its counterpart in the NFP space, so chances are you don’t need to start from scratch. Doing some research on Do Good Jobs, our website or LinkedIn can start to give you an idea of what options are out there.
If you haven’t worked in the non-profit sector before, the question around your interest and motivation for making the change will likely come up. It’s essential to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your transferable skills, as well as demonstrating how you align with the mission and values of the organisation. Let them know that your interest in working with them is genuine by outlining what has drawn you to their cause in your application.
Get your head around funding:
Non-profit organisations typically rely on a mix of funding sources, such as government contracts, grants, donations, and fundraising events. When doing your research on potential organisations and job opportunities, it pays to get an idea of how they’re funded and what that means for job security and potential opportunities for advancement. You can often find this information on the organisation’s website, but don’t be afraid to bring it up with your recruiter or hiring manager if you’re unsure.
Culture changes:
By their very nature, most non-profit organisations tend to be smaller and are often governed by a Board (though there are certainly some exceptions!). However small team size doesn’t necessarily mean small output – non-profit organisations are known for punching well above their weight when it comes to outcomes and achievements. You’ll need to be prepared to work collaboratively and wear multiple hats in your role, but the upside of smaller team sizes is that you get exposure to a broader range of tasks and areas of the business that are normally not available to you in other sectors. Non-profit organisations can sometimes be a product of their own success – their staff gain diverse skillsets and build up resilient communication skills, making them very attractive to the hiring market!
On the hunt for your next role?
Take a look at the current vacancies we're working on! See something you like? Follow the link to learn more or get in touch with the team!
Lead GirlGuiding New Zealand to achieve its purpose of ensuring all girls and young women are valued, inspired and empowered to take action to change their world.
Contract Type: Permanent, full time
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Location: Remote - anywhere within NZ
Lead the development and implementation of a new 10-week Adventure Series programme focusing on outdoors experiences and adventure.
Contract Type: Three-year fixed term contract, full time
Location: Auckland
Don't forget about our upcoming webinar: Kickstart Your Career - 2024!
Join us on Tuesday 13th Feb from 12.30pm to discuss career opportunities and development for the year ahead.
Learn more and register your interest here.
You can find our current vacancies, job hunting advice, interview prep tips and more at mclaren.co.nz
We are proud to have remained New Zealand owned and operated, since opening in 1989. We’re also proud of our relationship with the not-for-profit sector. This business is personal to us. It’s about connecting people, not collecting commissions.
"??""Do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."" - Desmond Tutu. Your leap into the nonprofit sector could be just that! ?? Also, for an exciting opportunity to add value in a unique way, consider our sponsorship opportunity for the Guinness World Record of Tree Planting. Let's make history together! ?? https://bit.ly/TreeGuinnessWorldRecord"
?? "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." - Mahatma Gandhi. Joining the not-for-profit sector with ManyMangoes is a fantastic leap towards meaningful impact. ?? Don't miss the chance to lead and inspire with our Chief Executive vacancy in NZ! ??