Originally published at carecareers
Many of us are drawn to the not-for-profit sector because we are looking for a more rewarding job, but moving from a corporate role to a position in the not-for-profit sector can be a big change.
For career changers this means working with a very different business model and the possible new reality of a higher staff turnover, less resources and lower wages. These kind of changes can be somewhat of a culture shock as working for a not-for-profit can involve as much hard work and as many challenges as a corporate role.
Why make the change?
There are rewards for your hard work – showing dedication in your role will help you climb the not so corporate ladder and changing sectors does not always mean changing role types.
Not-for-profit organisations need staff in administration, accounting, marketing, transport and facilities just like any other business. Find out more about role types in disability and community care in The sector’s roles.
A definite perk of the not-for-profit sector is working with people who want to achieve common social goals, not financial. This can mean surrounding yourself with people who are passionate about why they do what they do, and if you’re enjoying your role type, but not the business culture in which you work, this can be a welcome change.
While decreased wages are a reality of sector hopping, salary sacrifice is a definite perk. To read more about salary sacrificing visit AccessPay.
Not-for-profit organisations will also typically be more flexible in their approach to your day-to-day routine, though this often comes with more responsibility too.
Volunteering may be a good first step
If you’re thinking about making a bigger change and stepping into a completely different role type, volunteering can give you an insider’s view and will often get your foot in the door. Remember though that your experience contributing unpaid work will be different to contributing your time as a paid employee.
When making applications for paid roles, employers like to see some experience within not-for-profit organisations. Be sure to mention any volunteering or pro bono experience you have had. For example, you may have managed the accounts of a not-for-profit business in a previous corporate finance role.
Through your volunteering or pro bono work your potential employer will value your sense of work culture that is their reality.
Find out if you are right for the disability and community care sector
If you’re looking for a new and rewarding challenge but aren’t entirely sure if the disability and community care sector is for you and your career choice, why not take our Career Quiz – it’s a fun and easy way to see if you’re the right person for the sector.
