Want to Find a Nonprofit Job in Marketing? Try These Volunteer Opportunities to Build Skills

Last month, we shared some opportunities to build skills in nonprofit program management through volunteering. Now, we’re back with another list of ways finding a meaningful volunteer opportunity can advance a career in marketing.

On Idealist, you can find not only a wide range of nonprofit marketing jobs, but also volunteer opportunities that help you strengthen the skills needed to land these types of paid roles. Because nonprofit marketers usually wear many hats, volunteering can help you build experience, expand your portfolio, and demonstrate your versatility.

Here are a few types of experience-building volunteer opportunities to give you that professional boost:

Social Media Support

It can be challenging for nonprofits to have the resources needed to post fresh content on multiple channels at a regular cadence, and yet social media is an essential tool for organizations to spread their mission and raise funds. Volunteering in social media is a great way to sharpen multiple skills like writing, graphic design, and content strategy.

SEO Assistance

Help organizations—and your resume—stay competitive with SEO-focused volunteering opportunities. Discoverability is key for any organization’s website, and ranking highly in search engines requires effective SEO keyword optimization. If you have a knack for this type of work, or want to learn it and develop more career prospects, check out some of the organizations searching for SEO assistance on Idealist now.

Email Newsletter or Blog Writing

Many marketing roles require writing samples. Volunteering to write newsletters or blog posts gives you up-to-date examples to show potential employers your storytelling abilities. Plus, it never hurts to add a bit of diversity to your online writing portfolio. Filter our list of writing volunteer opportunities by cause area to discover some out-of-the box, fun opportunities to lend a hand.

Photography or Video Support

All organizations need visual content to tell their stories, and the most effective kind are not stock images but those taken of their actual community. If you have photography or videography skills, volunteering can help you build your portfolio. If you want to develop a highly-sought after skill in photography, sign up for a one-time or recurring volunteer opportunity to help organizations with their visual needs.

Volunteering in nonprofit marketing quickly grows practical skills while supporting organizations that make a difference. You’ll quickly gain relevant skills in the areas you need to develop and strengthen your portfolio. That way, when you’re ready to apply to jobs in this field, you have the perfect anecdotes to showcase your experience.