What You Should Know About Working at a Nonprofit

by Staffer Team

Nonprofits (NPO) are organizations that work to improve the common good of society. Typically they work through charitable, educational, scientific or religious means. NPOs don't distribute a profit to private individuals; instead, they use all available revenue to serve the public interest.

Types of NPOs include:

  • Animal Shelters
  • Soup Kitchens
  • Advocacy Groups
  • Trade Associations
  • Religious Institutions
  • Private Foundations

Types of Roles in NPOs:

  • Fundraising
  • Grant Writing
  • Volunteer Coordinators
  • Community Organizers
  • Web Design
  • Accounting
  • Research
  • Communications

Does "nonprofit" mean that the staff aren't paid?

  • No. The organization as a whole doesn't make profit, but the employees do! 
  • Salaries can vary widely but smart nonprofits strive to pay competitive salaries and benefits so that they can hire talented staff members

What's different about nonprofit work?

  • The goal is to have a positive effect in the world
  • Staff members are expected to share that perspective
  • There are typically fewer resources and it's not uncommon to be understaffed

How to get hired by a nonprofit

  • In addition to screening for skills and talents, NPOs usually look for candidates who have a passion for their mission
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