In this original CSE Connect Blog Post, Associate Director of Career Strategies and MSBA Career Coach, Kristen Babineau, encourages students and recent alums of all programs at Brandeis International Business School to consider a career in Nonprofit.
Charting a Purposeful Path: Why Recent Business Grads Should Explore Nonprofit Careers
I often hear myself telling students that searching for a full time job is a full time job in itself. I want to make sure that my students are using their time wisely, which includes not only looking at big Fortune 500 companies but also trying to think outside the box for opportunities. Why not make a positive impact in the world while still utilizing your skills and knowledge from your business degree? Working for a nonprofit organization offers a wealth of opportunities that can be equally rewarding and fulfilling. Here are just a few of the potential advantages of working for a non-profit:
The opportunity to make a difference
One of the primary benefits of working for a non-profit is the sense of purpose and fulfillment that can come from knowing that you’re working to make a positive impact on the world. Whether you’re working for a non-profit that focuses on environmental conservation, social justice, or healthcare, you can feel good about the work you do knowing that it is helping to improve the lives of others. Additionally, unlike some corporate roles where the connection between your work and its broader impact can be less immediate, nonprofit work allows you to see the tangible results of your contributions.
Opportunities for growth and development
Non-profit organizations often offer a variety of opportunities for growth and development, including training and professional development programs, leadership roles, and the chance to work on a range of projects and initiatives. This can be a great way to develop new skills, gain experience in a variety of areas, and build your resume. Nonprofits require a broad range of skills, from marketing and finance to project management and advocacy. These skills are highly transferable to other sectors, boosting your career versatility. Additionally, limited resources often drive nonprofits to think creatively and find innovative solutions to challenges, allowing you to hone your problem-solving skills.
Competitive compensation and benefits
While non-profits may not be able to offer the same level of compensation as for-profit organizations, many non-profits do offer competitive salaries and benefits packages. In addition, many non-profits offer perks such as flexible schedules, generous vacation time, and opportunities for remote work, which can help employees achieve a better work-life balance.
Some nonprofit organizations are also considered cap-exempt when it comes to H-1B visas. This means that they are not subject to the annual numerical limitations (caps) imposed on H-1B visas for for-profit employers. As a result, international students working at nonprofits have a higher likelihood of obtaining an H-1B visa since they are not competing against the same quota of visas available to other employers.
Networking Opportunities
The nonprofit sector often operates at the intersection of various industries, fostering collaboration among professionals from diverse backgrounds. Nonprofit work provides a unique chance to collaborate with professionals from different sectors, including government, academia, and corporations, expanding your professional network significantly. Building connections and expanding your network in different sectors helps to diversify your network and opens more doors for possible corporate jobs down the road.
Many corporations today prioritize social responsibility and community engagement as integral parts of their values and operations. Experience in the nonprofit sector showcases your commitment to making a positive impact and highlights your ability to navigate complex challenges while working with limited resources- both qualities that are highly desirable in corporate environments.
I truly believe that having a career in a nonprofit organization can offer a dynamic and fulfilling path for business students. It provides the chance to work towards causes you deeply care about, while developing a diverse skill set and making a tangible impact. So, if you’re ready to combine your business acumen with your desire to create positive change, the nonprofit sector might just be the perfect fit for your future career journey. Ready to get started? Check out this great article which includes job search websites for non-profit jobs in various industries.
