How do I get opportunities to work with more serious organizations and have more serious positions rather than volunteer or internship positions? How can I ensure I stand out?
I am a female in my early 20’s. I have an undergrad bachelors in Finance. However, along the way during my undergrad studies, my interests changed and I felt a deep and personal connection to non-profits and working to promote gender equality and helping young African girls access education. This led me to pursuing a masters in Human Rights Law because I figured I needed the relevant papers to backup my competencies and experiences (having worked for/with multiple non-profits in the past). I’m still currently in school getting my Human Rights Masters Degree. #law #career
8 answers
Katherine’s Answer
The best way to get into positions where more responsibilities are the norm is to start out in positions with fewer responsibilities. If you put in the time and effort into learning the basics of an organization, you will be that much more prepared to take on greater tasks. Experience matters. As Jon mentioned below, it's also important to network with others who share your interests.
There are always opportunities if you know where to look. Be open with people around you about what you want to do, say "yes" to new experiences, and show up! That last one is the hardest. People will start reaching out to you if you continue to go and volunteer and be present as much as possible in your community.
Kevin’s Answer
Cheryl’s Answer
Finding one non-profit will open your interest and your opportunities with other non-profits. The last owner of our non-profit camp was requested and offered a higher opportunity with a large camp in another state that is nationwide for kids with cancer. Focusing on a group that is near you, find those that they are colleagues with and slowly work your way up. Not only will you gain the experience you’d like in this field, you would also have a great opportunity to prove the things you can do for these groups.
It may take time, but usually the companies that need you the most do not have the time, money, or employees to be able to advertise their needs.
Steve Arroyo
Steve’s Answer
Steve recommends the following next steps:
Marianne’s Answer
Also identify foundations in your area that support the community and look for volunteer opportunities that could allow you the ability to meet people internal to the company that you think may be of interest. That is a good way to learn about what they do and the culture to see if its a good potential fit.
I work as a lender in a bank and for the last 15 to 20 years I've been able to sit on boards and become very active in the community I work in and learn so much. I also realized that there are many more opportunities available within the "corporate" setting to help and gain exposure to not for profits that I never realized before. Good Luck.
Nancy’s Answer
1) nonprofit Foundations - like the Gates Foundation - could use that skillset
2) Many large companies have Foundations that need both skillsets. They are often giving away millions of dollars and need people who can properly screen and vet the organizations and the accountability metrics.
3) Politics - city and state level