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.
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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