Job Searching in a Tight Market

Tuesday, February 26, at noon Eastern time

Nurys Harrigan is the president and chief executive officer of Careers In Nonprofits, a Chicago executive-search company. She has spent the past decade placing executives, middle managers, and support staff in jobs at nonprofit groups. Ms. Harrigan is a graduate of Baruch College- City University of New York and is active in organizations such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals, The Society for Human Resource Management, and the American Society of Association Executives.

A transcript of the chat follows.

Peter Panepento (Moderator):
    Hello and welcome to today's online discussion with nonprofit careers expert Nurys Harrigan -- president of Careers In Nonprofits, a Chicago executive-search company. Ms. Harrigan will take your questions on job searching in a difficult economy. Judging from the number of questions we've already received, this is an important topic for many in the field. If you have a question for Ms. Harrigan, please click the "ask a question" link and fire away. Ms. Harrigan will answer your query as quickly as she can.

Question from Jane Cooke, ASLA:
    What are some tips for breaking into the nonprofits during this economic downturn? Maybe such a move should not be considered now? I'm particularly interested in environmental and green jobs but after a year and a half of searching, I've gone back to private practice (landscape architecture); under what conditions might I consider taking another stab at nonprofits and/or should I take ANYTHING if something comes up as a result of my long search? When can I be choosy? Thanks!

Nurys Harrigan:
    I always recommend that if anyone is trying to break into the nonprofit sector they might try sacrificing the organization type for the position or viceversa. This will increase the possibility of securing the desired position at the desired organization in the near future.

Question from Roger - Unemployed in SE Michigan:
    Dear Nurys Harrigan, President of Careers in Non Profits:

After a lengthy career spanning over 24 years I am seeking an opportunity to work in fund development or marketing. I am a member of our local AFP Greater Detroit Chapter, recent graduate of their Leadership Program, have 15 yrs corporate giving experience and 1.5 years experience as a Development Officer in Corporate and Foundation Relations and another 6 months as a Loaned Ambassador for United Way with telemarketing, account management and special events background experience. The advice I receive from fundraising professional relationships built thru the AFP association, networking with family and friends, etc. is to seek a mid-level career in annual giving and proceed from there. With the SE Michigan job market not moving forward, most if not all of the open positions I am seeing during the last 4 months are at the Executive Director or Major Gifts Officer levels. Since this is not an area where I have experience, what suggestions might you make regarding good employment avenues to search in for finding work here in Michigan? I am not able to relocate because of family issues. Please help with some suggestions! Thanks.

Roger Soloway
Eastpointe, MI

Nurys Harrigan:
    I understand your situation, and the market being what it is in Michigan makes things a bit more challenging. Have you considered consulting? Perhaps some nonprofits that are not able to hire a full time person might consider bringing you on board as a consultant. Two of those will give you full time work for the time being. Best of luck!

Question from Al Lee:
    What are the most stable fields (e.g., Foundations, Major Gifts, Annual Fund, Direct Mail, etc.) in the non-profit world right now? Which states have the best non-profit stability?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Corporate, Foundations and Major Gifts are very stable most times. New York, Washington DC and California have the most nonprofits and over time have been the most stable.

Question from Marlene Johnson, Texas:
    What areas in nonprofits are typically trimmed or "eliminated" when faced with a decrease in donations and revenue? Should non-profiters be worried?

Nurys Harrigan:
    This varies from nonprofit to nonprofit. Many nonprofits plan well and are able to survive without eliminating staff during a decrease in donations. Typically those positions involved in the fundraising of donations and revenues are last to be eliminated.

Question from Lisa Dalrymple, college student:
    I am a communication student studying public relations and I hope to get a job in a non-profit organization after I graduate with my BA in April. What advice do you have to offer, and is there any special preparation you foresee that I'll need?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Congratulations! Yes, if you haven't yet try to sign up for an intership at a nonprofit. This will certainly facilitate you securing a position sooner than later in the nonprofit sector.

Question from Natarsha Thompson, NLT Grant Writing Solutions:
    I desire to work as a Program Officer for a nonprofit. My background is mostly with the federal government (budget and grants management, technical assistance) and now I'm a freelance grant writer. What is the job outlook and how do I pursue this career?

Nurys Harrigan:
    The job outlook for nonprofit is still good. You might consider accepting an opportunity that is not ideal but that you qualify for and then after you've gain experience in the sector, pursue securing your preferred position at your preferred nonprofit.

Question from Kate, Law Student:
    Any advice for a law student interested in a career in the nonprofit world - either in a legal or nonlegal capacity?

Nurys Harrigan:
    There are a number of small and large size nonprofits that have advocacy, public/government affairs and legal counsel department for which you may qualify for. Research those nonprofits and apply to their open positions. Also, consider volunteering in one of their programs should they have no open opportunities at this time.

Question from Beth, management consultancy:
    How should private sector / business professionals position themselves to emphasize the relevance of their experience and skill set to the non-profit world? What are the best sources of senior level job listings in the non-profit world?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Great question! Idealist.org and associationjobs.org are two great sites to research for high level opportunities. Also, as you apply to positions make sure that you highlight those responsibilities, skills and experience that are relevant to the nonprofit open position. You can do this on your resume or your cover letter. All the best!

Peter Panepento (Moderator):
    Don't forget the Chronicle of Philanthropy's job listings, either. We post an extensive list of job listings, as well as tips on managing your career: http://www.philanthropy.com/jobs/

Comment from Bill Mengerink:
    Comment. Kate should consider the planned giving arena, too.

Question from Meg, small non-profit:
    Can you give some information on what you look for in clients and how someone can get noticed through a non-profit executive search company like yours. Although I went to law school, I interned at multiple non-profits and am currently working at a small-nonprofit and seem to have difficulty convincing people that I do not want to practice law but want to pursue a career in with a np. I have recently re-started my career search and am having trouble getting noticed.

Nurys Harrigan:
    If you are not working the ideal way to do this is by volunteering or joining a nonprofit in a temporary or temp-to-hire capacity.

Question from Sally, grantmaker (prefer to remain anonymous):
    I have worked at three different foundations in a variety of positions over the past 10 years and taking a break. I would like to return part-time to this field as a consultant but have never done this before. What should I consider in approaching my field as a consultant, especially considering the economic climate?

Nurys Harrigan:
    You should consider your network and also your business development skills. Having a solid sales and marketing plan that you are comfortable executing is key.

Question from Lesley, small foundation:
    I worked in a tiny non-profit for a year in volunteer management and development and now work at a small private foundation managing grant distribution. In trying to set myself up for a successful career in non-profit management, philanthropy, or consulting in these areas would getting an MBA be a good idea? I lean towards this over an MNPA or other non-profit specific degree, but don't know how helpful it truly will be (ie if the cost is worth it). If you don't suggest an MBA, how do you suggest I go about starting to climb once I no longer want to be stuck in "associate" positions?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Congrats on all that you have achieved thus far! Both MBA's and MNPA's are degrees that nonprofit employers like to see in prospective employees resumes. It comes down to your personal preference and what will make you more fulfilled and competent. Look at the classes offered under each program and select the one that most appeal to you. In regards to upward mobility, sometimes you obtain promotions by changing employers, therefore be open to that. All the best!

Question from Ann Hermes, ATC Foundation:
    How far back in time should a resume go?

Nurys Harrigan:
    I always recommend not going back more than 10 years.

Question from Ellen, corporate America:
    Follow-up to Nurys' previous response to Al Lee's question ("Corporate, Foundations and Major Gifts are very stable most times"). Please clarify. Are you referring to Offices or positions in non-profit organizations which focus on Corporate / Foundations / Major Gifts?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Hi Ellen, I'm referring to positions.

Question from Susan, small nonprofit:
    How do you market yourself when you are 59 years old? Why should organizations hire experienced older workers when they can hire younger, cheaper workers who can be trained?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Organizations are more and more open to hiring mature workers. They recognize and value their years of experience and work ethic. Market yourself by being flexible (In terms of salary and titles) and keeping your skills very current.

Question from Daniel, small to medium nonprofit:
    How can someone best search for and pursue potential positions while staying in their current one? Especially, do you think that non-profit managers understand that most of their employees are not planning to stay in the same position forever?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Yes, nonprofit managers understand this. Although, employers like to keep good employees for as much as possible. For every ten resumes submitted you will get one interview. Send resumes to open positions early morning or late night from home and schedule your interviews for before work, lunch or after work.

Question from Jack, independent development consultant:
    What would be a recommended job search strategy for someone without good work history or references? I've had several jobs that were a poor fit - the chemistry between me and the executive director didn't work, and I either left or was asked to leave - sometimes having achieved some results, other times not? Thanks a lot. Jack

Nurys Harrigan:
    Some employers might see this as a red flag. Consider temp assignments, where the employer will be more at ease having you come on board for a "trial" period without major commitments. This will also be very helpful to you in deciding if it is a good fit before you accept a permanent position.

Peter Panepento (Moderator):
    We've hit the midway point in today's discussion. Thank you to everyone who has submitted questions thus far. If Nurys hasn't yet responded to your query online, she will before the hour is over. We do have time for plenty more questions, too. Please click on the "ask a question" link to get your question answered by our expert.

Question from Valerie, Marketing Exec:
    I've dedicated my career to helping service-focused organizations in the for-profit arena achieve significant goals and success, and, at this point in my career, want to re-direct my skills toward helping an educational, social welfare, or health-based non-profit achieve similar success. Are for-profit marketing, management, and biz dev skills broadly applicable to non-profit? How can I best make my case? Thank you!

Nurys Harrigan:
    Yes, they are! Congrats on your new career path! In responding to open positions highlight those skills and experience that are most trasferrable in either your resume or cover letter. Best of luck!

Peter Panepento (Moderator):
    We received a question regarding whether questions submitted before today's discussion are being considered. Yes, they are. We received a large volume of questions before noon and Ms. Harrigan is answering those along with those that are coming in during the live discussion. If we haven't yet posted an answer to your question, please be patient. We should be able to get to every query that comes in.

Question from Nickie Bonner, Freelance Grant Writer:
    Interested in strategies for career-changers. I have superb organization and communication skills from years as a television news producer/writer/reporter. Now want to transition to non-profit but not sure how to package and sell myself.

Nurys Harrigan:
    If you are not currently working, the best way to do this is by accepting a temp-to-hire position or temporary opportunities in the sector that will be very helpful in promoting your skills and experience. All the best!

Question from Ellen, corporate America:
    What is the outlook for transitioning from a corporate America career to a career in the nonprofit sector? I'm targeting high education Corporate and Foundation Relations positions focused on using granted funds for research partnerships between the university and its donor(s). Any advice to offer?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Nonprofit employers are very open to hiring corporate America employees, as long as you are flexible with your salary expectation. Position yourself as an expert in your field and through your resume or cover letter highlight those skills that are transferrable. All the best!

Question from Jacob, public policy nonprofit:
    What advice do you have for someone who works in development for an organization they admire, but would like to transition into programming? In their current position, how can someone find opportunities to expand their roles into other areas?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Traditionally employees in your situation have asked to participate in projects in the department that they are interested in transitioning to, if that is not possible and if time permits, try volunteering elsewhere to gain the experience and exposure. If you feel comfortable share with your supervisors that you feel your skills, abilities and experience are best suitable for a position in programming. That will keep you in their radar should an opportunity become available in that department.

Question from Linda, Peace Corps Volunteer:
    I will be leaving the Peace Corps in June 2009. At that time, I will have been in Mexico for 2 years working to strengthen the work of the Board of Directors for a national park here. How can I best leverage this expericence in the job market when I return?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Congrats! I hope that you are having a great time in Mexico. We have placed many, many Peace Corps volunteers in nonprofit organizations. It often starts in a temporary capacity and then becomes permanent. I have no doubt that you will be able to secure work promptly. Keep your skills, specially computer skills current in the meantime.

Question from Kiran Padale, Small NGO in India:
    Globalization had successfully able to influence every corner of the country. I am committed to the profession but there is always dilemma in back of mind about remunerations being paid in NGOs. This overpowers my commitments , values, ethics.

Nurys Harrigan:
    Yes, unfortunately, NGO's have historically paid low salaries. They do manage to retain great staff who are dedicated to the their missions. We hope that soon they will pay competitive salaries.

Question from Tara Collins, Watershed Agricultural Council:
    How important is the education element/degree in a fundraising specialty to securing development jobs going forward?

Nurys Harrigan:
    More important than education is experience. If you are changing career course some education may help you should you lack experience in the field.

Question from Ann, higher education foundation:
    I recently received my M.A. in Philanthropy and Development. There is no position for me to advance to at my present employer. I'm looking to relocate to a metropolitan area. What are some key phrases to incorporate into my resumé to help it stand out from the crowd?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Great question! If you have the experience, highlight Major Gifts, Relationship Building and Online giving.

Question from Bill Mengerink:
    I’m a 62-year old, over-seasoned fund raising professional. I resigned my positions as Pres/CEO of two non-profits in October. To what extent will my age be a factor in finding a full-time position? My health is good and, God willing, I’d like to work another 8-10 years. However, it seems to me that consultation would be less of an encumbrance for someone hiring a consultant than a full-time staff.

Nurys Harrigan:
    We have been successful in placing seasoned fundraising professionals. Their experience working with major donors is priceless. Both permanent work and consulting are good possibilities. Stay flexible in regards to salary and title and you should find new employment quickly. All the best!

Question from John Royer:
    At age 50 with over 25 years experience in major gifts and advancement leadership, including 13 at my present institution, I'm looking at new opportunities at the VP or Exec. Dir. level. I'm learning that age (50 and over) and length of time at current position can be a negative. Are nonprofits looking for younger leaders?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Nonprofits are looking for candidates that have the best skills and experience. Age not being relevant.

Question from Lisa Dalrymple, Student:
    What do you think are the most important skills sets non-profits are looking for right now?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Strong communication, writing and technical skills.

Question from Sarah, small Foundation:
    What are your opinions on obtaining an MBA for work in philanthropy, non-profits, or corporate involvement? Is this degree highly regarded or is an MNPA better?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Nonprofits are attracted to higher educational degrees. I've not experienced any employer having a preference of one over another.

Question from Ellen, corporate America:
    What is the employment outlook for Corporate and Foundation Relations for a university? How does this function differ between high education and other non-profits? Or does it?

Nurys Harrigan:
    The main difference is in compensation. Universities have higher paying Corporate and Foundation Relations positions that other nonprofits and are always in high demand.

Question from Beth, management consultancy:
    It appears your search firm specializes in Chicago. What other search firms have a national scope?

Nurys Harrigan:
    I'm not aware of other firms that are full services with a national scope. Korn Ferry is and they do executive level as well as Isaacson Miller.

Question from Susan, foundation:
    What do you suggest for working mothers who want challenge and opportunities with nonprofits, but need flexibility and work/life balance?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Many nonprofits are able to only hire part time staff because of budget limitations, these are great opportunities for working mothers. Best of luck!

Question from Richard, Consultant-to-Be:
    Can you recommend any resources for starting a consulting practice? That is, marketing ideas and business plan development. Thank you very much.

Nurys Harrigan:
    You may want to contact an association for consultants, they offer a number of educational tools and other resources to help you succeed in your new career. All the best!

Question from Rick EF Hutton and Co:
    I'm looking to make a change in careers. I'm presently a sales manager and would like to get into fundraising for a nonprofit. My goal is help an Animal Rights org. I raise ferrets. Any advice? Rick

Nurys Harrigan:
    You may want to start volunteering at an animal rights organization if you haven't yet.

Question from Erin Young:
    I noticed within the chat, advice has been given for those seeking career changes to package themselves in a way that makes their experiences stand out. As a recent college graduate with some experience in different areas, how should I go about seeking positions to begin my career path in the non-profit sector? What would be the best way to stand out?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Hi Erin, thank you for your question. If you have no relevant experience, starting as a temp is very helpful. The employer takes a minimal risk at hiring you as a temp and you gain maximum experience and exposure.

Question from Casey, foundation:
    I'm planning a move and thus a job search in the coming months. I have worked and volunteered at non-profits and have worked at a large private foundation. I have always been on the administrative side and would like to use this new job to move into a research or programmatic function. What key phrases/skills should I include in my resume to make it stand out?

Nurys Harrigan:
    Congrats on your move! If you have done any research or program work while holding administrative positions, make those your first few bullets under experience.

Nurys Harrigan:
    If you are a job seeker in Chicago, please visit our website at wwww.careersinnonprofits.com

Peter Panepento (Moderator):
    It looks like our time is up. Thank you to everyone who took the time to join us this week. Thanks, also, to our guest, Nurys Harrigan. Please join us next Tuesday, March 4, at noon Eastern time for our next live discussion. The topic is an interesting one -- "Is Direct Mail Dead?". Our guests include Roger Craver and Madeline Stanionis -- both of whom should provide some thought-provoking perspectives on this important topic.