Posted 1/26/25
As a former salesperson who transitioned to a career in nonprofit fundraising, I have discovered some unique differences in operations between both types of organizations that I did not expect. In this case, the mission. While both for-profits and nonprofits typically maintain mission statements to remain focused on the reason they exist, one involves using the mission to support profitability while the other is using it as a guide for doing beneficial work. In a sales role, there was no mistaking that profits were most important, and accountability revolved around how each employee contributed to business growth. Making the career shift to fundraiser after being trained as a salesperson, I was taken by surprise when some decisions in the non-profit were made based solely on the delivery of the mission.
One example that stands out, involved a 5k fundraising event. I was able to contribute as a new staff member to help grow the number of participants and gain some donors as well as sponsors at the same time. After a few years of significant growth, positive momentum and increasing popularity within a larger area, there were noises that the event was placing too much pressure on staff members and the programs were beginning to suffer. Rather than find ways to shore up the event because of its growth potential without negatively affecting the programs, the leaders decided to cancel it. As a former salesperson where profitability was king, cancelling a growing event went against everything I was taught. I’m not saying that the decision was wrong, only that it went against the business mentality of growing profits.
Such decisions were quite frustrating at first but I soon realized that this was one example of the adaptability needed when changing careers from for-profit to nonprofit organizations.There are other examples of placing the mission over profits, but I needed to change my perspective and accept these types of decisions. If you are considering a career transition to the nonprofit, be aware that some mission-based decisions can happen and not to be surprised. It took me some time but I am well aware now and have learned to roll with the decisions.
Photo by Nicola Barts (www.pexels.com)