by
Michelle Porter
The third sector is often seen as the poor relation when it comes to career options, but all over Europe it is rapidly expanding and professionalising. In the UK it has grown 24% since 1997 and this rapid growth has created a skills shortage in the sector. Fundraising is one area where there is a high demand, a
good fundraiser is hard to find and it may just be you have what it takes to make a successful career in fundraising.
Know your sector
Volunteering is a great way to understand the area you want to work in. It demonstrates your commitment and passion to the cause and gives you an insight into how the company operates from the bottom up. The voluntary sector still want to see your professional qualifications as they are keen to attract the best talent, but experiences gained in the field will help your C.V to shine.
A good fundraiser needs a genuine passion for the cause. This passion will not only help you to secure the job but help you to develop your career. If you believe in the cause this will come across in your conversations, sincerity cannot be faked and passion inspires people. A good knowledge of the charity will give you credibility.
Think Creatively
Fundraising is commonly associated with cold calling and ‘chugging’, but a career in fundraising can offer some exciting, creative opportunities. Charities are always looking for innovative events and online campaigns. They are looking for individuals who are imaginative and enthusiastic, who have great ideas and the ability to inspire. A background in events management will certainly improve your chances of success in this sector as charities look for more unusual and creative events to help them raise funds. From expeditions to fashion shows, from presentations to telethons, many charities seek employees with event management experience. You might like the idea of
running a film festival, for example!
Take control of your professional development
When it comes to managing your career, be proactive. Don’t wait for your manager to send you on a course, take responsibility for your own career development. With
online learning platforms, study can fit alongside your day job and show your future employer a level of commitment that will help you to stand out from the crowd. Company training programmes are developed for the benefit of the company and not your specific career. You need to have a clear idea of where you want to be and continually improve your knowledge, skills and contacts to ensure you get there.
When it comes to your peers don’t be afraid to share
Collaboration can be just as effective as competition. Skill sharing not only expands your skill set but can build up a loyal
network within your field. It’s also a fun way to learn new things and can be a real confidence booster. If you’ve helped someone set up their Facebook page for example, they will be much more likely to recommend you if they hear of an exciting opportunity. Don’t see skill sharing as working for free but a more sophisticated form of networking. It can be hard to find the time to keep abreast of the innovations in your chosen field so knowledge exchange is essential. Conferences are often the perfect opportunity to network with potential employers and to learn from your peers. Get your name known, people prefer to deal with people they have met before.
Be flexible, it’s surprising where an open mind can take you
Speak to any professional and they will tell you that their career was not always a straight path to their dream profession. People who aspire to manage events can often find themselves organising events as part of a fundraising role for example. Being an expert or specialist is a great ideal but in the current job market a flexible candidate is highly valued. A typical fundraising job spec can include:
managing events, direct marketing, budgets ,
press releases and social media. Don’t label yourself. Utilise all of your talents and you could find yourself in a successful
career in fundraising. 
