Thursday, March 24, 2011

Nonprofits provide fulfilling job opportunities to recent grads

Still looking for a full-time job months after graduation? Have a desire to change the world? Working at a nonprofit organization may be for you. Nonprofits can be a pathway to enter various fields such as IT, marketing and public relations, education, legal professions, and accounting.

Many recent grads have started their careers at nonprofits and are helping their communities every day. Recent grads Colleen Flynn, Jeremy Strauss and Liz Copeland began working in the nonprofit sector by volunteering with LIFT, an anti-poverty organization, as college students. They are now working full-time at various nonprofits.

These grads have received challenging opportunities that have helped them to grow as professionals. “Working at a nonprofit has given me more responsibility and more leadership opportunities than I ever imagined at such a young age,” said Flynn.

As LIFT’s communications and media relations manager, Colleen Flynn has garnered more than 20 major press opportunities, managed the rebranding of an organization, and produced several publications and videos.

Along with challenging opportunities, working at nonprofits has other benefits. Nonprofits usually have positive and collaborative work environments. “Everyone is working there (a nonprofit) because they care about the issue,” said Copeland.

Other benefits include upward mobility and the ability to help people every day. “It’s rewarding work. You don’t make as much money, but you are making an impact in people’s lives,” said Strauss.

Working at a nonprofit is different than working at a traditional business. Since they are less staff and smaller budgets, you must be willing to collaborate with other staff members and be creative with resources. You should also be passionate and have a connection to the work you are doing at the organization.

There are several networks you can join if you are interested in working in the nonprofit sector. The Young Nonprofit Professional Networks, local volunteer groups, and even your college alumni chapter are good ways to network. AmeriCorps and idealist.org are also good places to find nonprofit jobs.

To learn more about LIFT, visit liftcommunities.org.

Friday, March 11, 2011

Tips From a Fellow Job Seeker

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the  job market is slowly starting to make progress. The unemployment rate dropped to 8.9% last month, the lowest it has been in two year. With the economy on the upswing, job seekers most put their best foot forward to take advantage of rising job opportunities. I recently spoke to a fellow job seeker, Aida Rinay(@minaturebeauty) about job search tactics that have worked for  her and they could work for you too.

1.  Tailor your Resume

It is important to tailor your resume to each job you apply for. Make sure your experience relates to the job description. Use keywords on your resume whenever possible. If you are searching for job in a specific industry, google examples of resumes in your field to find formats that you could use

2. Sell Yourself

No matter what job you are applying for, you must sell yourself. Explain to the employer why you are the right person for the job. If you submitting a general application, explain how you can benefit the company.

3. Set a Schedule and Have a Plan

Have a goal to send a certain amount of resumes and find a certain number of job opportunities each day.  Along with using website such as monster.com and simplyhired.com, research companies you want to work for and submit your resume.

4. Have a Positive Attitude

If you have a negative mindset, you will attract negative outcomes. Have faith and believe that you will find the job for you. Use inspirational quotes, positive affirmations, pray, or meditate to help you maintain a positive attitude.

Searching  for work in a weak economy isn't easy, but you will find the right job if you put your best foot forward.