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.:Resource Guides:Interviews-Jessica White.
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Interviews
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Advice
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What books, magazines, periodicals, websites or other materials should people read to learn more about this field? |
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The Chronicle of Philanthropy is a must. Also, a membership in the Association of Fundraising Professionals keeps one in contact with the leaders in our field. There are a number of books, magazines, periodicals and websites which can be
of help. Which ones you chose really depend on where you are in your career and what area of specialty one chooses.
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What questions would you ask of someone who wants to do this work? |
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Do you have a passion for helping others? Do you believe in the mission of the organization? Are you persistent and willing to spend long hours learning and building relationships?
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In what kinds of jobs can recent college graduates have the most impact in your field? |
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The best way to have impact is to spend time learning the field from more seasoned professionals. Find a good mentor, meet with him/her often, and listen. Work in a larger organization where you can observe those with more experience.
Volunteer for organizations where you would like to work or for those you wish to support. If you work hard and are sincere, your work will be noticed and you will be given the chance to make an impact.
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What are the major trends and/or key issues in your field? |
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- Merger of companies
- More cause-related corporate giving rather than philanthropic giving
- Foundations shifting their giving to a more narrow focus
- More nonprofits competing for the same dollars
- More women controlling the giving dollars
- More accountability expected by individual donors
- More entrepreneurial donors looking for a "return on investment"
- Younger donors do not view philanthropy the way their parents did. Organizations cannot to continue to operate in the same old way.
- The use of the Internet in communicating with donors and clients and in how they give and pay.
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What forms of support and/or advice have you found most valuable (mentoring, trainings, professional development, attending conferences, etc.)? |
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Mentoring has been my greatest support throughout my career. I still have colleagues with whom I exchange ideas and ask for advice. In addition, I would say being part of a professional organization and taking an active role in its
operation. This would include attending the conferences offered by professional organizations.
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What is a common or tough interview question a candidate in your field should be prepared to answer? |
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What makes you think you would be successful raising money for this organization?
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What other advice would you give people who want to do this work? |
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Realize that joining the nonprofit field won't make you a lot of money, but you can get rich. If you want a job that matters, if you want to make a difference in people's lives, if you want to wake up every day eager to get to work
and be exhausted by the possibilities at the end of the day, if you want a job that is all-consuming, you belong in the nonprofit world. Whether providing direct service, working with donors, or directing the management of an organization, you must be passionate
about the cause and willing to do what it takes. But, you'll never have to ask, "Is it worth it?" You'll know.
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next page | The Big Picture
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Career Center Resource Guides
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