I have worked in nonprofit agencies for seven years, and this is my only professional work experience. At times I think I’d like to work in a for-profit company. I am afraid the environment will be so different…do you have any tips on making such a decision?
Choosing to leave the not-for-profit sector is not an easy decision to make, especially when you have built up a considerable amount of experience. There are several factors to consider, both personally and professionally.
First off, let’s debunk a myth. Just like in the not-for-profit sector, there are many different varieties of companies and cultures in the for-profit sector. And while some not-for profits are more business oriented, some for-profits are more socially responsible, both towards society and their employees. What really needs to be considered is how you will fit into a specific organization.
While some people believe it is more acceptable for people to move from a for-profit to a not-for profit, many people have successfully made the change from not-for-profit to for-profit.
How successful you will be in making the transition to a new environment will depend on your specific skills, education, and experience. However, many jobs have transferable skills. Depending on the position you are applying for, the skills and experiences that you’ve gained in the not-for-profit sector can be very valuable in marketing yourself to employers – especially when changing sectors.
Review the list of transferable skills below and check the ones you feel you possess.
- Advise people
- Analyze information
- Anticipate problems
- Budget money
- Buy products/services
- Calculate/manipulate numbers
- Communicate
- Coordinate activities
- Consult with others
- Cope with deadlines
- Delegate
- Demonstrate
- Design
- Develop
- Edit
- Encourage
- Find information
- Follow directions
- Handle complaints
- Listen
- Interview people
- Investigate
- Learn quickly
- Mediate problems
- Meet the public
- Memorize information
- Observe
- Perceive needs
- Persuade
- Plan
- Program
While you’ve just demonstrated that you have several skills that are needed in both not-for-profit and for-profit environments, in order to make this decision you really need to consider what you want to get out of your job. For example, what are your needs, values, and interests? In what kind of an environment do you work best? How much money do you need to be making? What is it about your current job that isn’t working for you? What are some of the rewards your current position offers? What would you need from a new position to make the move worthwhile?
This is where research, and most importantly, informational interviewing (with individuals who can help you to find out more about any proposed moves you are contemplating), can be essential. By speaking to people who have the type of job you think you would like to do, you can get an insider’s perspective on what the job is really like. Getting a handle on what you specifically want will give you a better sense of whether or not the for-profit environment is right for you.
Michael Mayne, M.B.A., CMA, is Managing Partner and a Certified Professional Career Counsellor at Catalyst Careers, a Career Transition, Counselling, and Outplacement firm. Michael has been involved in the not-for-profit sector for many years, and is currently President of ALS Canada. To contact Michael, visit: www.catalystcareers.com.
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Disclaimer: Advice and recommendations are based on limited information provided and should be used as a guideline only. Neither the author nor CharityVillage.com make any warranty, express or implied, or assume any legal liability for accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information provided in whole or in part within this article.
