Want to get ahead in the charity sector? Take a fundraising course!
In a recent blog post, we talked about the ongoing recruitment crisis in the fundraising sector - how fundraisers are leaving the sector in droves and charities are struggling to fill vacancies. We went on to say that the situation presents charities with a golden opportunity to bring in fresh talent from outside the sector.
What’s our point?
If you’ve had enough of the corporate grind and want to establish a new career in fundraising, there’s never been a better time to do it.
But how do you land that all-important first role?
If you’re thinking, ‘I want to get into fundraising, but I don’t have any experience, or the right skillset,’ fear not. There are two things you can do …
1. Volunteer
Charities are crying out for volunteers, so why not give back whilst gaining some practical fundraising experience? There are loads of opportunities on Volunteer’s website.
Want another reason to volunteer? According to research by Deloitte, 82% of hiring managers are more likely to choose a candidate with volunteering experience, and 85% of those are willing to overlook other CV flaws when a candidate includes volunteer work.
It’s a no brainer.
2. Do a fundraising course
If you’re concerned about a lack of fundraising knowledge and skills, why not book onto a fundraising course? You don’t need a degree. Even a basic understanding of the sector will help you get ahead.
Here are a few options (sorted by cost) to get you started:
Fundraising Essentials Certification
Cost: Free
Time commitment: 2 hours
NotProfitReady.org offers a variety of free courses for budding fundraisers. They cover everything from ‘creating a fundraising plan’ to ‘virtual fundraising events.’
However, a good starting point is their ‘Fundraising Essentials Certification’ course.
This three-part course provides an overview of non-profit fundraising focusing on the importance of major donors and examines the four stages of the fundraising development cycle.
What will you learn?
You’ll be introduced to common fundraising areas, roles, and trends charities use to raise money for their programmes
The cycle of fundraising development, including how charities identify major donors and the process of cultivation.
How to conduct a solicitation meeting, overcome resistance, determine the amount to ask for, and turn prospects into donors
On passing the exam, you’ll receive a certificate and 1.5 CFRE credits.
Fundraising From Scratch: A Complete Guide to Growing Income
Cost: £15.99
Time Commitment: 4 hours
Developed by Simon Scriver (professional fundraising consultant), this course will teach you the principles of fundraising and provide you with all the information you need to develop an effective fundraising strategy.
What will you learn?
The principles of fundraising: what works and what doesn't
Understanding of the different methods of fundraising
How to maximise fundraising and crowdfunding from individuals and companies
Tips and tricks for online fundraising, including Kickstarter and GoFundMe
How to gather stories and convey them in a manner that motivates donors to give
Knowledge of the practicalities of fundraising, including donation processing and database management
How to manage your time
Develop fundraising strategies, plot supporter journeys and be confident of what to do next
How to Fundraise: A Guide to Fundraising for Non-Fundraisers
Cost: £44
Duration: 3 weeks (4 hours of study a week)
The University of Kent’s ‘How to Fundraise’ course is facilitated through FutureLearn.
A practical guide to fundraising, you’ll be given tips on everything from preparing a fundraising story to processing donations.
What will you learn?
Why and how people give to charity
How emotional and socially sensitive fundraising facilitates effective giving
Preparing your organisation to fundraise effectively
Creating and communicating a fundraising story
Receiving donations and looking after your donors
Developing a sustainable, long-term fundraising plan
You’ll receive a digital certificate on completion.
Introduction to Fundraising
Cost: £75
Duration: N/A. Access to the content will be available for 12 months, starting from your booking date.
If you’re new to the sector and want the gravitas of a name like the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (the professional membership body for UK fundraising) on your CV, this could be the course for you.
What will you learn?
Fundraising’s place within the wider non-profit environment
How to develop a compelling case for support
How to ensure your fundraising in legal and ethical
The fundraising planning process and how to identify income sources
How to create appropriate supporter communications
You’ll receive a certificate on completion.
Final Word
Whether you choose to volunteer, or do a fundraising course, it’ll do wonders for your job prospects. Not only will it look great on your CV; it’ll put you in a strong position when recruiters shortlist candidates, and give you plenty to talk about at the interview.
When you’re ready to apply for your first fundraising role, we’ll be on hand to help. Give us a call on 020 3750 3111 or email info@bamboofundraising.co.uk