Are you looking for a job in the nonprofit world?

This year has been an extraordinary year in the world of nonprofits, with organizational mission work being as important as ever, and a bigger than average percentage of staff wanting to make a move.

It’s also been a wonderful year for us at Altrui Consulting, continually working with new clients to support their fundraising and relationship building. In addition, this year we began doing something new, recruiting.

What an interesting arena this is, recruiting. I’ve learned so much, and have had several successful searches for clients.

With all of this, I have learned even more when it comes to hiring from the nonprofit perspective, and would like to share that. My motive here is to help people in a job search, whether they are already working for a nonprofit or want to enter the nonprofit world for the first time.

First, be sure to have some experience with the position you are applying for, either direct experience or experience that is relatable.

A cover letter helps. There seems to be a lot of discussion around whether a cover letter is necessary or not these days, and my experience in hiring this year leads me to say yes, it is. Also, write a new cover letter per position you’re applying for. It’s important to be focused on the position you are applying for and not use a general cover letter.

In your cover letter and resume, directly address the needs they want from this position with your experience. Do this as often as possible. For example, if the organization wants a candidate to increase relationships with their board members, directly address your experience with board members in the cover letter and resume.

Be on time for your first interview. I know, you know this. And still, many are not on time, or do not answer their phone for the first interview.

Next, make sure your LinkedIn profile is current and let your LinkedIn connections know you are looking and what the perfect position looks like for you. If you want to keep your search private for now, send individual notes to your connections and let them know you are quietly searching.

Bring in your inner circle. Make calls to close friends and colleaugues who can help you with your search, expanding it to people you may not know.

My last idea is to take time every day for the search. When I had been laid off several years ago I got up every morning, showered, dressed, grabbed a coffee and began searching. It was just like going to work.

I wish the best of luck in your search!

Take a risk. Be of service. Support your friends and colleagues. Be kind.