Published 5 January 2023

Transitioning to a Nonprofit Career

Whether you’re looking to bow out from a current career, take a step back, or explore an entirely new line of work, transitioning to nonprofit work is becoming increasingly appealing for executives across diverse sectors. This type of work empowers individuals to apply their talents, skills, and expertise developed throughout a corporate career to make a meaningful impact in the nonprofit realm.

Understanding Your Purpose and Passion

Facing a significant life change often leads executives to realize they want to continue adding value to their communities. Particularly for those contemplating retirement, establishing a solid, fulfilling life plan can be just as imperative as a long-term financial strategy. Research indicates that a “purposeless” retirement can result in adverse health outcomes.

Get Started With Discernment

To initiate your transition, it’s valuable to invest time in self-reflection and exploration. Consider your strengths, meaningful activities, and how you wish to invest your time. If you prefer a structured approach, collaborating with a career-transition counselor could be beneficial.

Identify Your Ideal Involvement

Once you clarify your passions and interests, several avenues allow for impactful contributions:

• Part-time volunteering: Numerous organizations seek individuals to assist with marketing, operations, communications, fundraising, and development. These nonprofits value volunteers with substantial experience, renewed commitment, and abundant energy. Volunteering offers flexibility, enabling you to set the pace and level of involvement that aligns with your lifestyle.
• Board membership: If you desire a deeper engagement, consider joining a nonprofit board. Before proceeding, inquire about board members’ time commitments and fundraising expectations, as these are typically required.
• Leadership role: If considering an executive director (ED) position or supporting role within the ED’s team, keep in mind that this transition may only reduce your compensation package. Leadership roles can be demanding, and many nonprofits operate with limited budgets and resources.

Finding the Right Organization

Next, begin searching for a nonprofit that aligns with what you discovered during your reflective process. Inform colleagues and friends about your interest and incorporate questions about nonprofit engagement at networking meetings. You may uncover a wealth of interests among your colleagues, leading to valuable connections in nonprofit leadership.

When narrowing down your options, seek informational interviews with board members and leaders of your preferred organizations. Additionally, attending events hosted by these nonprofits can help you gauge what resonates with you.

Your Narrative Matters

As you explore options for your next steps, you’ll need to create a compelling narrative representing your new role. Compile a list of your transferrable skills and interests to effectively convey how your corporate experience can benefit a nonprofit organization. Update your professional profiles with relevant information reflecting your career aspirations.

Value Your Time and Effort

Regardless of your chosen path, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this transition requires time and effort. Some executives approach board or leadership roles with the expectation of a significant downshift, only to realize that the challenges are as demanding as those found in corporate careers.

However, the intangible rewards can be substantial, as you leverage your skills in pursuit of purposeful and gratifying endeavors.

Disclaimer

This article reflects the views of our contributing adviser and does not represent the editorial stance of iBestTravel. Ensure to verify adviser credentials through reliable sources.

About the Author

Anne deBruin Sample is the CEO and owner of Navigate Forward, with extensive experience in HR leadership and career transition strategies. Her insights have been featured in major publications. She holds a wealth of experience from high-level positions across various organizations.