The Match.com Approach: How to Find a New Nonprofit Job Without Losing Your Current One

by Rosetta Thurman · 2009-08-20 10:48:00 UTC
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Even if you're not single and ready to mingle, you've no doubt heard of Match.com, the most popular online dating site in the world. Because of the continuing social stigma of finding love on the Internet, Match.com's motto assures customers that "It's okay to look" at the profiles of potential mates on the site.  Match.com offers a laid-back, discreet option of finding a date by allowing you to post your profile and send messages to anyone you may be interested in. You could even take the super lazy route and just wait for people to contact you! This same approach applies to If you are seeking a new nonprofit job but don't want your colleagues at your current job to know.  If you're not ready to have a frank conversation with your boss, it can be difficult to find new opportunities without letting your boss know that you're looking. But don't let that keep you from finding a great new nonprofit job. Even though you may feel like you're betraying your current boss, just remember the Match.com motto: It's okay to look.

Post a Good Profile

Posting your resume online can bring you unexpected opportunities. Take some time and post an overview of your work experience and skills on sites like LinkedIn and Visual CV. Be brief, but detailed in describing your previous positions, education and training, and skills you'd like to use in your next job. Don't forget to mention any relevant awards you've received or professional associations you're affiliated with. Be sure to list any career opportunities you may be seeking, for instance "looking for new opportunities in nonprofit administration and finance" so that the appropriate people can contact you. Also consider posting a photo of yourself along with your resume so that potential employers can see your smiling face as someone they would love to work with.

Browse New Opportunities

Don't be afraid to browse for new jobs that might interest you. It may take you six months to a year to find something that's just right for you, so don't rush it by jumping on the first thing that sounds interesting. Set up alerts on nonprofit job sites that will deliver results to you every week. Take your time and apply only if the job sounds like a good fit. You don't have to tell your boss about any interviews you have unless you've received an offer from another organization and you're ready to leave your current job.

Use Email as a Discreet Networking Tool

If you don't want to announce to the whole world that you're looking for a new gig, it's best to contact a group of select colleagues via email. You should definitely use your work contacts (excluding your boss) as resources for your job search. Let them know that you're exploring new career opportunities and you would love their help if they come across any positions that fit your expertise and interests. It doesn't hirt to also attach a copy of your resume so they can pass it along to folks who may be interested in hiring you. Your network can be your most powerful ally in job searching before you leave your current job.

What are some other ways to conduct a successful nonprofit job search without letting your boss know you're about to jump ship?

Rosetta Thurman
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