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Nonprofit

Considering a career in the nonprofit sector can be overwhelming because of the wide variety of organizations and roles available. A nonprofit organization uses surplus revenue to advance its mission rather than distributing profits or dividends to owners or shareholders. Nonprofits are typically centered on a cause (e.g., education, health, or the environment) or a specific population (e.g., children, women, or older adults).

Nonprofits are funded by foundations, government grants, membership dues, and fees for services they provide. They typically attract people who are passionate about solving social problems. By working in this sector, you can make a positive impact on behalf of a specific cause.

Nonprofit work can range from direct service roles (working directly with individuals or groups) to administrative and operational roles.

Direct Service Roles: 

Administrative Roles:

Skills to develop for success in this industry

Skills required in nonprofits will be dependent upon the role (administrative or direct service), but broadly speaking these are the skills many employers look for: 

  • Ability to communicate with different stakeholders   
  • Creativity
  • Enthusiasm & knowledge for the cause
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Multi-tasking
  • Perceptiveness
  • Service Orientation
  • Time Management 

Key information or knowledge for this field

Job Search Advice:

  • In addition to the skills needed to perform the job, candidates should convey enthusiasm for the organization's mission and the work they will be doing.
  • Because many nonprofit employees fill several different roles within an organization, competitive candidates should also demonstrate transferable skills.
  • If an organization of interest has never hired an intern, don’t let this stop you from approaching them about considering you and what you can offer. 
  • Highlight volunteer experience, as this demonstrates commitment and familiarity with nonprofit organizations. 
  • Nonprofit organizations typically practice “just in time hiring” which means when there is a current need they work to fill that need.  For this reason, it would not be uncommon for an organization to post openings during the spring quarter. Common exceptions to this hiring practice include large organizations or those that have a formally developed internship program.  In this case, opportunities will likely be posted during the winter quarter. 

Interviewing Advice:

Candidates need to express their connection to the organizational mission and culture. Hiring managers seek individuals that have a genuine commitment to helping the community and making a difference. Describing your relevant experience, course projects, volunteer work and campus involvement can be a great way to translate your commitment to a mission. Nonprofit hiring managers often seek candidates who can wear many hats and contribute in multiple ways. Being adaptable is key, especially when applying to small organizations. Describe past experiences in which you held multiple responsibilities or successfully adapted to unexpected circumstances.

Sample Nonprofit Interview Questions 

  • How do you feel about [cause/belief that the nonprofit works for]?
  • Tell me about a time you have worked with a limited budget.
  • What do you think are the greatest challenges facing nonprofits today?
  • How would you go about recruiting and retaining volunteers?
  • How have your experiences prepared you to work in the nonprofit sector?

Online resources specific to this industry

  • The Chronicle of Philanthropy Jobs:  an independent organization offering trusted resources, training, and nonprofit job opportunities to support mission-driven organizations.
  • Foundation List: connects purpose-driven talent with impactful organizations
  • Guidestar: searchable database of non-profit organizations. Provides detailed information on each organization including a description, contact information, and additional organization information. 
  • Idealist: domestic and international jobs with non-profits and ngos
  • National Council of Nonprofits job board: connects job seekers with nonprofit organizations across North America, helping professionals explore nonprofit careers and organizations find qualified talent.
  • NPO.net: non-profit and policy jobs in Chicago
  • Vault* is a comprehensive resource for information on what it is like to work within an industry, company or profession.  *Note: Registration using Northwestern email address is required for access.
  • Work for Good: non-profit job posting site that also offers job search tips

Relevant student groups and professional organizations

Northwestern Student Groups: 

External Professional Organizations: