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How to start a new job

Writer: Sharon KitroserSharon Kitroser

Updated: Nov 29, 2024

I have shared thoughts on how to leave a job many times. 


Don’t burn bridges, leave everything your organization might need to continue what you were working on…and exit like the classy individual you are no matter the bad behavior you might have endured.


With some of our client partners experiencing turnover, it might be time to share a different point of view.


So, below are some thoughts about how to start a new fundraising job


How to start a new fundraising job

For the record, the team has shared our thoughts on onboarding. We have spoken, written, and trained teams on best practices for onboarding.


This time it is about you, the new hire. 


Congratulations on your new job. Now, let’s get to work.


  • Be sure to learn the mission.

    • How your organization started

    • How you serve the community or a specific group

    • How many individuals, families, seniors, children you have served


  • Perfect your story

    • What brought you to this mission or what drew you to this mission

    • Learn some mission success stories you can share


  • Understand your role

    • Ask your DIrector to outline what success in your role would look like in the first 30 days &  first 60 days. 

    • What are his/her priorities for you

    • When will you meet for one-on-ones?

    • Is there someone on the team you can shadow (and maybe turn into your mentor)

    • Add any community, fundraising, or networking events to your calendar.


  • Learn who you will interface with and their roles

    • Marketing team

    • Program folks

    • And more depending on the mission of your organization


  • Learn the systems

    • Your CRM

    • Project management systems

    • Gift acceptance policies

    • Any rules about email usage and privacy you should be aware of

    • Any expense limitations  

    • And more depending on the mission of your organization


  • Meet new people and ask questions.

    • Listen to the answers and learn how you can best work with teammates

    • Look for something you may have in common to connect on a deeper level (Kids, Dogs)

    • No need to share how YOU used to do it in your old job (maybe later)

    • Be you—let them see who you are while getting to know them


I know you are all aware of obvious things like filling out your insurance paperwork…but here are a few more things that often get forgotten.


  • Change your LinkedIn to reflect your new position

  • Put your phone on silent- Don’t worry, they will leave a message


And, most importantly—ask…where is the coffee machine (and the bathroom!)


Remember, they hired you because they believe YOU can do the Job.

And, to do the job the best way you can from the moment you step in the front door.


If you need some help in:

  • Sales Training for Nonprofit Professionals

  • Major Gift solicitation

  • Grant research or writing

  • Data and how to interpret 

  • How to make the most out of Giving Days

  • How to market you & your nonprofit (and to who)

  • AND MORE!!!





 
 
 

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