Looking at the different areas that non-profit organizations serve, it is possible to see the diversity that exists within non-profit organizations. The non-profit organizations present opportunities at all levels, from entry-level positions to professional positions. Some of the positions available at the entry-level are — case managers, office managers, some counseling positions, and campaign organizers. Despite the diverse career opportunities, it is common knowledge that salaries in these places are lower when compared to the same position in a for-profit organization.
Non-profit organizations provide a perfect workplace atmosphere. Most people who work in a non-profit setting feel less pressured when compared to their counterparts in for-profit organizations. The work atmosphere is non-threatening and non-competitive. The camaraderie in this kind of setting is higher since everyone working in the organization has similar goals.
Opportunities for growth are plenty; even entry-level positions are considered as important as any other level and as such are given more responsibilities than similar entry-level positions in mainstream organizations. These positions include program related work, which allows individuals to work one on one with the people they are helping. The chances of moving up the ladder are better in non-profit organizations. This is a great way to gain experience if you want to move on to a better-paid position in a for-profit organization down the line. The skills, that you learn with this kind of experience, sometimes called soft skills teach an individual leadership, ability to communicate with others, and flexibility.
Nonprofit organizations are generally smaller and inclusive companies, allowing the employees to interact and learn the mechanisms of the company. Individuals learn the strategies of running a company and they also learn how the decision-making process works. This is all valuable information for someone who plans to strike out into the for-profit workforce.
Once employed within a nonprofit organization it is easy to change jobs or roles within the organization. This allows the companies to function with lower staff numbers. This is good for the employees as well, as they train in different jobs and learn different job responsibilities.
Nonprofit organizations are great for people who want to work for a cause, and do something great for the society. Non-profit organizations can really foster a sense of right and wrong. Working in a place like this allows one to fulfill a personal mission of helping others.
The best outlook with nonprofit organizations has to do with the recent trend of such organizations converging their strategies to match public sector jobs. The companies are offering better salaries and benefits that are competitive in the job market. Joining a nonprofit workplace can therefore be seen as an investment.
For an employee searching for diversity within one company, non-profit organizations provide the perfect career. The sacrifice of taking a cut in pay will pay off when one feels the satisfaction from helping others.