Guide to Potential Nonprofit Careers
While searching for a good job can be rewarding in itself, some people are looking for a career that helps make the world a better place or supports a cause they care about.
People who work in nonprofit careers might find meaning in their jobs.
Read on for information on getting started on your search for a nonprofit career.
What Kind of Careers are in the Nonprofit Sector?
Any job that exists in a for-profit organization exists in the nonprofit sector as well. Nonprofit organizations need accountants to keep budgets on track. Marketing specialists help target fundraising drives to those who are most likely to give. Database administrators keep track of donors, ticket buyers, or program participants. Similarly, there are nonprofit careers for paralegals, teachers, computer support staff, graphic designers, and salespeople.
In fact, the Urban Institute, which conducts research on social policy, reports that one in ten jobs in the U.S. are nonprofit careers, and these organizations contribute more than $666 billion to the U.S. economy. The institute also reports that the number of public charities has grown more than 60 percent in the last ten years.
What Kind of Earning Potential Might Nonprofit Careers Have?
The U.S. Department of Labor reports that full-time employees have higher hourly wages in nonprofit careers than in private industry as a whole.
And the benefits of nonprofit careers could potentially go beyond the earning potential. Employees often find that their ability to be creative with limited resources or to find ways to work alongside other organizations serves them well throughout their career. A bachelor's in business remains the most popular degree in the country. Related career programs include international business, e-business, and administrative office support.
How Do I Get Started in My Search for a Nonprofit Career?
Start by pursuing a good education in the field you're interested in. An associate's or bachelor's degree in an area like accounting, nursing, or business could potentially make you an attractive job candidate.
While jobs are often posted in the same places as for-profit jobs, there are also some nonprofit-specific resources like idealist.org, philanthropy.com, and nonprofitcareer.com that will give you more information about nonprofit careers.
Finally, if you're interested in a particular organization or area such as international relief or arts enrichment, consider looking for an internship or volunteering a few hours a week.
