Experience requirements vary. Smaller nonprofits generally require less experience than larger organizations. Smaller organizations, may, for example, only require one or two years experience in the development office. Larger organizations may require three to five years of experience. Experience requirements are often waived when an individual has demonstrated the ability to raise funds.
Employers generally prefer candidates who have worked in public relations, journalism, communications, fund-raising, and development, the not-for-profit world, or a related field.
Directors of fund-raising must be organized, detail-oriented, articulate people with strong communications and leadership skills. They need to be comfortable speaking in public both one-on-on one and in front of large groups. The ability to write not only well, but also creatively, is essential. Directors should be passionate, people oriented, and enjoy interacting with others. Mathematical acumen is also important.
- Active and Contemplative Religious Sisters and Brothers
- Directors of Corporate Sponsorship
- Directors of Volunteers
- Environmental Education Program Directors
- Environmental Lobbyists
- Fund-Raisers
- Grant Coordinators and Writers
- Historic Preservationists
- Land Acquisition Professionals
- Land Trust or Preserve Managers
- Librarians
- Lobbyists
- Museum Attendants
- Museum Directors and Curators
- Museum Technicians
- National Park Service Employees
- Nonprofit Social Service Directors
- Park Rangers
- Proposal Managers
- Public Interest Lawyers
- Public Opinion Researchers
- Public Relations Specialists
- Rabbis
- Roman Catholic Priests
- Social Workers
- Zoo and Aquarium Curators and Directors