Question: Even when a job description only asks for a resume, is it important to also include a cover letter and references?”—Stacey B., Chicago

Answer: Absolutely! It’s worth it to take the time to send a complete application—resume and cover letter, with references if applicable. Many times, sending just a resume or a template cover letter with stock phrases indicates that you’re applying for several different jobs at one time, which can make the hiring manager take you less

Question: In salary negotiations, how do you determine the best place to start? I’m not sure how to find an acceptable price point or good salary to start from. What’s my worth? –A. Chatman, Chicago

Answer: More often than not, salary negotiations are an unpleasant affair. They’re wrought with anxiety that you’re potentially lowballing yourself or setting the number too high, in turn knocking you out of the running for the position. When determining the best place to start, it’s important to first realize that the conversation doesn’t have to

Question: How do you successfully use LinkedIn? – J. Washington, Chicago

Answer: Ah, LinkedIn! To some, a godsend. To others, a necessary evil. No matter where you fall in the spectrum, it’s undeniable that the platform has proven to be an invaluable asset to the job search. From endorsements, to headlines, to finding the perfect symphony of words to make your summary shine, LinkedIn can prove

Question: What is the protocol for following up after interviews? What does it mean to be too pushy or too lax? –A. Brookover, Arlington, VA

Answer: Consider the time after your interview as an unofficial extension of the conversation you had with the hiring manager. You’ll want to reach out promptly—time is of the essence here and can make or break your candidacy for the position. That being said, following up is simpler than you would think! There really is

Question: How do I find a professional mentor? – K.Robinson, Washington, DC

Answer: A mentor is an invaluable asset for any individual looking to learn the ropes and excel in a particular field, or break into another one. Having a professional mentor is a great way to get an “inside look” into the market, employment trends and more. Some tips on how to find your mentor match: Identify

Question: When completing an application, what organization do I list on the application as my last employer? Do I put the staffing agency or the organization I worked at? I’ve been writing the agency on the application and the recruiter’s name, but how can the recruiter at the agency answer the questions the hiring manager needs answered of my experience with the organization I worked at? – Melvina C., Chicago

Answer: Many applicants turn to temporary work to avoid gaps in employment and build experience as they look for more permanent roles. This sometimes means taking on multiple temp positions over the course of a short period of time. This is a great thing, as you have valuable experiences to draw from and highlight! It

Question: Is it true that nonprofits are not inclined to choose previous for-profit career switchers? If so, what can we career-switchers do to change that impression from resume submission to meeting? – D. Dunford, Bristow, VA.

Answer: Making a career change is difficult enough, and taking the leap from the for-profit world to the nonprofit one often feels like a leap across the Grand Canyon. With dedication, passion and a strong work ethic, however, the leap is possible! According to a recent survey, 44% of nonprofits plan to create positions in

Question: What are the best approaches to negotiating salary after you get a job offer? I’m afraid of giving a figure I’ll later come to regret, but I also don’t want to ask for too much and jeopardize my chances. How can I find the middle-ground? –J. McClain, Naperville, IL

Answer: A job offer sometimes feels like you’ve reached the end of a long (and tiresome!) journey. You’ve been reaching out to people for weeks, possibly months, and sending out numerous resumes and cover letters in addition to interviewing. Once an offer is presented, it can be tempting to take the salary and benefits package

Question: “What are some other ways a person can look for jobs when you feel like you’ve explored all your options?” – J. Washington, Chicago

Answer: Despite the vast amount of opportunities available, it’s easy to feel as though you’ve reached “the end of the line” when it comes to finding the right positions that fit with your goals and experience. Contrary to how it might initially appear there are options that you can seek out or explore further when

Question: I always hear about how important it is to have professional references, but I haven’t been a job-seeker in several years and haven’t given them much thought lately. The problem now is that I’m looking to make a career change and I’m not sure I have reliable references. How do I go about getting references that best highlight my abilities? – Anonymous

Answer: References pose a challenge to many job-seekers regardless of their level. They allow potential employers to learn more about your skills and qualifications from someone who is already knowledgeable about your experience. They’re often requested by a hiring manager looking to bring you on to their team after they’ve completed interviews and reviewed your

Careers In Nonprofits

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Author: Nurys Harrigan-Pedersen