Why Nonprofit Career Paths Are a Great Choice This Year

If you’re thinking about working in the social-impact sector, you might be wondering what the current job landscape looks like. Between the number of social issues around the world, the importance of individual giving, and the reality of nonprofits doing good work, it's the perfect time to pursue a nonprofit career path.

A positive outlook for the social-impact sector

If you’re a recent graduate looking to get your foot in the door at a social-impact organization, but are worried about stagnating job opportunities, don't lose hope! The the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that job openings are above the 3.63% average across the country. While there are many people looking to start a nonprofit career path, there are certain things that you can use to your advantage—showing that you’re adept and experienced in using digital platforms could set you apart in an evolving nonprofit landscape.

Explore different organizations (and see if they offer internships or volunteer positions), take informational interviews, and focus on reaching out to people in your network. 

Trends in fundraising make it an appealing path within the sector

Have you considered fundraising as a specific nonprofit career path?

Fundraisers at social-impact organizations will have to work hard to retain donors, as well as secure larger gifts, as millions of organizations compete for donations; in fact, fundraising is an area that is predicted to grow at a much faster rate than average. The field covers a wide range of activities, including donor research, relationship management, event planning, corporate giving, and grant writing. And changes in how fundraisers work require new skills. If you’re considering a fundraising or development career, this could be an excellent time to start your search or just learn more about the profession.

How the political landscape makes this a great time for change

Every year is a great year for social-impact organizations looking to bring about long-term, positive change, but protecting the environment—and fighting climate change, in particular—are once again at the forefront of the news. Similarly, education initiatives like Universal Pre-K is in line with what many community-based nonprofits have been advocating for years. 

Thanks to these shifts, now could be an exciting time to begin a social-impact career. With so many social, educational, and health issues being addressed at the national level, there’s massive potential for partnerships between government and nonprofit organizations. Local nonprofits may be called upon for their expertise in working with their surrounding communities, understanding their needs and concerns, and delivering programs. 

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Even if it takes a little longer to land the perfect nonprofit job for you, you can explore the range of nonprofit career paths out there and take advantage of changes in how we work and how our work is valued. 

What excites you the most about a social-impact career at this moment in time? Let us know on Facebook!