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Transitioning from the corporate America to the non profit world
I've been working in a variety of roles at different tech companies for the past 8 years. Lately, I've found myself to be rather indifferent and uninspired at work. I've been spending time reflecting on it, and trying to zone in on what makes me happy and I feel like I want to take the leap and transition into a role in the non-profit world. Has anyone done this? Should i go back to school and get a relevant degree? Any advice or guidance would be appreciated!
Sangitas85
Imperfect Thinker
36
02/08/19 at 12:32PM UTC
Deena - your words of encouragement are invaluable - thank you thank you thank you!
Deena 'Fireball' BaikowitzCareer & Business Coach, Networking Expert
28
02/07/19 at 7:36PM UTC
So many great suggestions in this thread! I also recommend you do a deep-dive into your strengths and experience. They are likely relevant, and valuable to a non-profit. Marketing, communication, sales, and technology experience are HIGHLY valuable for non profits. Look at non-profit job boards and job descriptions that include communications, development & fundraising, outreach, and similar terms. Then write your cover letters and revise your resume to reflect those roles. I also recommend IDEALIST.ORG - the #1 job board exclusively for non profit jobs. Best of luck in your transition - the non-profit sector will be very lucky to have you!
Ceci
1.91k
02/06/19 at 5:41PM UTC
How exciting. Best of luck on your new career transition!
Sangitas85Imperfect Thinker
36
02/06/19 at 5:52PM UTC
Thank you Ceci! :)
Anonymous
02/05/19 at 10:29PM UTC
I made a similar, but opposite transition, from nonprofit to corporate. I'd recommend volunteering with a nonprofit you're interested in to get some experience (and it may transition into a FT role - you never know!) and show your commitment. Depending on what you want to do within a nonprofit, I wouldn't recommend going back to school.
Elizabeth Marie
1.58k
02/06/19 at 11:42AM UTC
Exciting! Going back to school depends... For example say you’re jumping into fundraising for a non-profit organization, a lot of fundraising programs have physical locations across the country that offer free or paid classes to give you the experience you need — the same with online classes!
Sangitas85Imperfect Thinker
36
02/06/19 at 1:32PM UTC
Thank you both for your guidance! I actually am an active volunteer at an organization that I absolutely adore so maybe I should start asking around about opportunities there. I'm also going to continue looking into local schools and online courses - just for some added exposure, and potential networking!
Anonymous
02/05/19 at 9:54PM UTC
I haven't made this exact transition, but moved from for-profit to corporate. Before you make the jump, have you looked at opportunities in Corporate Social Responsibility? This might be a good way to do more mission driven work without having to take a significant pay cut.
If you do want to move to non-profit, roles in PR/Partnerships or Development (depending on your skillset) might also be a good move - your connections to corporate companies will help bridge the gap!
Sangitas85Imperfect Thinker
36
02/06/19 at 1:29PM UTC
Thank you! I have not actually looked at opportunities in Corporate Social Responsibility! AND I really appreciate the suggestion to look into PR/Partnerships specifically at non profits - I actually have a marketing and sales background so maybe I can leverage my ability to communicate as a transferrable skillset.
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