How to Break Into the Nonprofit Sector

How to Break Into the Nonprofit Sector

Idealist can help you land your first social-impact role (without starting at square one).

Discover our essential job search resources below, including tips for drafting a resume, finding an impactful volunteer opportunity, and applying for jobs.

Handy Tools for Your Job Search

Social-Impact Resume Template

Social-Impact Resume Template

Use our Resume Roadmap to discover tips and resources for customizing your resume.

Designing Your Dream Career Course

Designing Your Dream Career Course

Plan out steps for landing your dream career with our free email course.

Nonprofit Cover Letter Guide

Nonprofit Cover Letter Guide

Learn how to personalize your cover letter for every kind of nonprofit job.

Getting started in the sector

Before applying for a nonprofit job, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the terms, lingo, and types of organizations that are common in our sector, as well as gain useful experience about working at a nonprofit. Here are some resources to help you get started:

How much money can you earn in a nonprofit job?

Explore nonprofit salaries, make informed decisions about your career, and learn how to negotiate salary before accepting a job:

Which nonprofit job should you pursue?

The social-impact sector offers a wide range of opportunities to grow useful skills, advance your career, and make a positive impact in the world. But with so many possibilities to consider, how can you know which nonprofit job is right for you?

Highlight your transferable skills

Once you’ve determined which nonprofit career path may work for you, learn how to seamlessly transition into the social-impact sector:

Considering graduate school?

Depending on your unique goals and interests, grad school could be the perfect way to advance your career: