You can find jobs in by: 1) tapping into the "hidden" job market; and 2) accessing job postings. Studies continue to show that the majority of all position vacancies are not advertised on the Web or in print. Uncovering the unadvertised ("hidden") opportunities is,
therefore, a very important challenge for the job seeker. However, nonprofit jobs are posted more frequently than many other types of positions, so if you are looking for a job in organizing, you should use both methods. Each is discussed below.
But before you start your job search, however, you should do three things:
Know what you want to do. Organizing jobs can be quite different from each other. Faith-based organizing differs from union organizing which differs from organizing for groups that focus on a particular area such as tax reform
or the environment. Some organizing jobs focus on people while others focus on issues. Also, many organizers identify strongly with a particular issue or seek a job where they can further a specific cause. You are apt to be more effective as a job seeker and more
satisfied as an employee if you approach your search with focus and enthusiasm.
Know why you are qualified. This involves some "detective work." Locate positions that appeal to you and determine the strengths (skills and qualities) the employers are seeking. Then take a good look at yourself and make a
list of the strengths you have that relate to the positions and be ready to provide concise examples of each, whether in writing or during an interview; and
Develop good, basic job search skills. This means the ability to write effective rsums and letters, to conduct "information interviews" as well as to develop job interview skills, and very importantly, the ability to network
among people in the field.
Five Ideas for Finding Hidden Jobs
Network - Personal contact and referral is still the most effective way to locate jobs. Courteously but assertively move from person to person in the field, always seeking information and referrals. The referrals are very critical to
your success.
Visit nonprofit career fairs - There are many such events these days. Some are offered by college career offices and public services centers, others are provided by nonprofit organizations.
Use a mail campaign. You will get a better reception if you focus on those that really appeal to you and do some homework on the group first. You can then send a targeted rsum and cover letter and follow up with a phone call to see if
an interview can be arranged.
Volunteer. This can be an especially good method when you find the organization that you would really love to work for. A few hours of volunteering each week can enable you to make a good impression and demonstrate your commitment.
And you're right there to learn of any openings.
Knock on doors. This direct method is still good, especially when you present yourself well, keep getting referrals, and keep trying new places.
Five Ideas for Accessing Job Postings
Go to special Web sites. Here are some especially good ones for organizing:
Go to the Web site of organizations that interest you. Many organizations will list organizing positions directly on their sites, usually through a "job openings" or "jobs" section.
Read printed job bulletins, e.g., Opportunity NOCs, a publication of the Nonprofit Center at La Salle University.
Check your college career office. Many such offices will provide job listings from alumni and others, in print or in electronic form.
Subscribe to job hotlines or email updates. Different organizations offer this as a free service. DART, for example, offers a job hotline to those who provide an email address.
Quotes from People in The Field
"Look at opportunities in traditional roles, but also look inside systems that are sincerely trying to change the way they do things. They offer jobs too. For example, banks that are reaching out to low-income communities and
need employees who can relate to the people in those communities."
- Michael Eichler, Director, Consensus Organizing Center
"If you want to find an organizing position, search out those whose work you'd like to be part of."
- Carrie Ferrence, National Organizer, Network in Solidarity with the People of Guatemala
"The best way to find a job in organizing is to research the field, then talk to a ton of organizers and organizations that interest you. If you want to do the work for the right reasons, you will find your match. Remember, you
are needed in this work. We want you to be part of the organizing family."
- Kim Fellner, Executive Director, National Organizers' Alliance
Tip #1: You probably have strengths important to organizing work that you have developed elsewhere. Some examples of these "transferable" strengths are teamwork, writing ability, high energy level, a caring attitude, speaking
ability, etc.
Tip #2: Your college career office may provide alumni contacts that can help with your networking activities. The staff there can provide other services to help with your job search as well.
