Career in Nonprofit Leadership: Skills, Pay, and Culture

Introduction to Nonprofit Leadership as a Career

The career that interests me is leading a non-profit organization or a non-governmental organization (NGO). This career is attractive because NGOs and nonprofits often sponsor health, educational, and social services for people who cannot afford them, essentially improving the world in a humane and meaningful way. It would be deeply fulfilling to contribute to society in such a critical capacity. Additionally, board members of NGOs make decisions that align with the best interests of the organization (Worth, 2013). They ensure that the organization adheres to the rules and regulations governing charitable organizations, and that it achieves its targeted objectives within a specified time (Baluch, 2017).

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does not tax these organizations; however, the individuals and donors who fund them are taxed (Hopkins, 2017). Employees receive a stipend occasionally, depending on how much the organization accumulates from fundraising (Kang, Huh, & Cho, 2014). Raising money is a primary priority, as it is needed to direct missions and goals rather than to increase the wealth of employees and stakeholders. A well-governed organization will succeed and achieve sustainable success, creating a positive imprint upon the world.

Career Capital and Personal Motivation

My career capital for this field includes a sincere empathy for others. I am always sympathetic toward people, and when I see someone who is unfairly disadvantaged, I feel a calling to help. I am also a social person who likes to engage with others, as I see the inherent value in every individual. I often feel the need to address society's many problems — something that is harmonious with the mission of the majority of NGOs and nonprofits (Gnan, Hinna, & Monteduro, 2013). Sometimes the most satisfying experience in life is helping to solve a troubling problem without receiving financial reward, and that is exactly what charitable organizations do.

Nonprofit organizations are important to society because they provide free educational, health, and social services to the poor, underprivileged, disenfranchised, and disabled (Leblanc, 2016). They operate with great integrity but still rely on funding to remain sustainable. When an organization is a nonprofit, that does not mean there is no revenue at all — it simply means that any excess revenue is reinvested into the organization for a specific purpose, and that money can never be distributed to members or shareholders. Such organizations can invest in emergency funds, and a well-funded charitable organization is far more sustainable, allowing it to make a more lasting impact on society (Reinsfelder, 2015).

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a form of self-evaluation that an organization employs (Murray & Harrison, 2014). CSR is especially common in nonprofit organizations because they aim to give back to society and empower people in pursuing affordable education and healthcare services. As a result, nonprofit leaders must regularly self-reflect on their work, assess their effectiveness, and foster organizational self-awareness. Leaders of charitable organizations broadly acknowledge the importance of CSR (Rosenthal, 2012). CSR and nonprofit organizations are deeply intertwined because both revolve around helping society without charging its members. Communities can access various services for free because nonprofit organizations provide and support such services (Young, 2017). The values and efforts of these organizations carry a duty to add meaningful value to local communities.

Corporate Social Responsibility in Nonprofit Organizations

The purpose of this paper is to use an informational interview to determine what rare and valuable skills are necessary for success in the nonprofit industry. This question is highly relevant because the nonprofit sector is currently experiencing vast changes. Many people have entered such organizations not only for reasons related to fiscal compensation, but for the honor of doing work they love and feel passionate about. These organizations have impacted society immensely, as communities depend on them for meaningful contributions delivered at minimal cost.

An informational interview focused on the nonprofit industry was conducted and lasted approximately one hour. The interview was handled in a conversational manner, incorporating prepared questions while also allowing the participant to share his experiences candidly. The interview took place at one of the NGO's offices and was facilitated by a moderator who is a graduate of the communication management program.