You’re starting a new job in nonprofit management. What do you need to know to succeed?

1 Know your mission

The first thing you need to do as a nonprofit manager is to understand and align with the mission and vision of your organization. This will help you set clear goals, prioritize your actions, and communicate your value to your stakeholders. Your mission should guide your decisions and inspire your team. Make sure you can articulate your mission statement and how it relates to the needs and interests of your community.

2 Build your network

As a nonprofit manager, you need to cultivate strong relationships with your internal and external partners. This includes your staff, board, donors, volunteers, beneficiaries, peers, and allies. You need to communicate effectively, collaborate strategically, and appreciate diversity. You also need to seek feedback, learn from others, and share your successes and challenges. Building your network will help you access resources, opportunities, and support for your organization.

3 Manage your resources

One of the most critical skills for a nonprofit manager is to manage your resources efficiently and effectively. This means you need to plan, monitor, and evaluate your budget, time, and human resources. You need to balance your income and expenses, track your progress and outcomes, and optimize your performance and impact. You also need to comply with legal and ethical standards, report to your funders and regulators, and ensure accountability and transparency.

4 Adapt to change

The nonprofit sector is constantly evolving and facing new challenges and opportunities. As a nonprofit manager, you need to be flexible, resilient, and innovative. You need to anticipate and respond to changes in your environment, such as social, economic, political, or technological trends. You also need to embrace and foster a culture of learning and improvement in your organization. You need to test new ideas, learn from your failures, and scale your successes.

5 Lead with passion

The most important thing you need to succeed as a nonprofit manager is to lead with passion. You need to have a genuine commitment and enthusiasm for your cause and your organization. You need to motivate and empower your team, celebrate and acknowledge their contributions, and create a positive and inclusive work environment. You also need to take care of yourself, balance your personal and professional life, and seek help when you need it.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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