Many employees choose to work in the non-profit sector because they are committed to the aim of the organisation. Graduates looking to work in a non-profit organisation should focus on the areas which interest them the most, as such organisations, particularly charities, are looking for commitment and enthusiasm.

Unlike most profit-making concerns the non-profit sector relies on its volunteers – so volunteer! Experience as a volunteer in the sector demonstrates interest and can also provide valuable inside knowledge about how non-profit organisations work.

Non-profit jobs

As well as sector-specific graduate jobs such as charity fundraiser and campaign officer, non-profit organisations employ graduates in many other job types, eg:

• Business manager
• Marketing manager
• Office manager
• Personnel / HR manager
• Public finance accountant
• Public relations officer.

Skills required

Business roles can take on unique aspects in the non-profit sector. For example, managers may be responsible for organising and motivating a team of volunteers, while finance officers might be involved in processing and redistributing donations. Business experience is certainly welcomed, but the skills most sought-after are:

• IT and web-based skills
• ability to communicate with a wide variety of people
• self-motivation
• mentoring
• languages
• project management
• time management
• multitasking
• tolerance.