Professional Development

Hey Dad, I’m a Fundraiser!

I don’t often get personal in my posts, but today, I will. Disclaimer: my son, Sebastian, has given me permission to talk about him and his ADHD and ASD. In his words, ‘That’s just facts.’ Back in 2011, I wrote a blog post called Mom, I Want to Be a Fundraiser! In it, I shared my vision for a future where young people don’t just stumble into fundraising like so many of us did but actually choose i

March 10, 2025 Read more

Collaborating with a Recruiter: What to Expect & How to Make the Most of It

The talent pool in the nonprofit sector is limited, this won’t come as a surprise. Since I started recruiting in 2008, organizations have been competing for talent. Even junior professionals, particularly fundraisers, are frequently approached by recruiters via LinkedIn or other channels. If you're new to the field, interacting with a recruiter might feel unfamiliar. You may be unsure how to respo

March 4, 2025 Read more

Stick It Out! Why Leaving Your Current Job May Not Be the Best Move

Turnover has long been a challenge in the fundraising profession. In 1996, a study by Edward G. Thomas at Cleveland State University revealed that over half of development staff left their positions within five years. Since then, the situation has only worsened. A few years ago, frequent job changes on a résumé were red flags to recruiters. Today, in the context of high turnover, three years at a

January 6, 2025 Read more

Professional Development 2025: On Your Marks, Get Set, Plan!

Happy New Year! January brings a fresh start—a time to reflect on our lives, careers, and new opportunities for growth. This month often brings a surge of inquiries about job opportunities and requests for informational interviews, signaling the season for setting professional goals. However, rather than focusing on job-hopping, let’s look at ways to grow right where you are. The beginning of the

December 30, 2024 Read more

CFRE or Not? Understanding the Value of Credentials for Professional Fundraisers

Since I began recruiting in 2008, I've often been asked about educational pathways for fundraisers and the value of certifications like the CFRE. Reviewing my past emails and blog posts, my perspective remains largely unchanged. Full disclosure: I didn’t have a CFRE when I was a fundraiser. With a young family—one child and another on the way—I had to choose between the CFRE and an MBA. I chose th

November 7, 2024 Read more

Gain Progressive Experience Faster by Asking for Opportunities

In the competitive job market of 2024, candidates often lean on the years they've spent in a role as a badge of expertise. But are years on the job alone meaningful if they aren’t filled with diverse, progressive experience? Employers are looking for growth and adaptability, not repetition. Consider this example: Candidate A has 20 years of experience in fundraising, consistently meeting goals. Ho

October 30, 2024 Read more

Beyond the Paycheck: Six Key Factors to Weigh Before Your Next Career Move

While pay may be a factor in job satisfaction, it often doesn’t top the list for fundraisers. Surveys frequently rank factors like engaging work, advancement opportunities, and a positive work environment as primary motivators. That said, fair and competitive compensation is still essential. It's the foundation. Employers must ensure that salaries are equitable and in line with performance and ind

October 23, 2024 Read more

Eight Essential Characteristics Employers Seek in a Fundraiser

What truly sets a skilled fundraiser apart? In my career, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside exceptional fundraisers, and over time, I've observed the traits they consistently share. I’ve also considered the top qualities that my clients are looking for in today’s evolving fundraising landscape. Here’s a look at the eight core characteristics that define a standout fundraiser. Listening S

October 16, 2024 Read more