1 Assess your motivation

Before you decide to make the switch, you should ask yourself why you want to do it. What are your goals, values, and interests? How do they align with the for-profit sector and the specific industry or company you are targeting? Do you have a passion for the product or service you will be raising funds for? Do you understand the expectations and challenges of working in a for-profit setting? Be honest with yourself and do your research to make sure you are making the right decision for your career and personal growth.

2 Update your resume

Your resume is your first impression to potential employers, so you need to make it relevant and compelling. Highlight your transferable skills and achievements in nonprofit fundraising, such as donor cultivation, proposal writing, event planning, budget management, and impact measurement. Use quantifiable metrics and specific examples to demonstrate your value and results. However, also avoid using jargon or acronyms that are specific to the nonprofit sector and might confuse or alienate for-profit recruiters. Instead, use language that reflects the goals and culture of the for-profit sector, such as revenue, profit, sales, customers, and return on investment.

3 Network and learn

One of the best ways to find opportunities and gain insights into the for-profit sector is to network with people who are already working in it. Reach out to your existing contacts who have made the switch or have connections in the for-profit sector. Ask them for advice, referrals, or introductions. Attend events, webinars, or workshops related to the industry or company you are interested in. Join online communities, forums, or groups where you can learn from and interact with other professionals in the for-profit fundraising field. Be proactive, curious, and respectful, and show your enthusiasm and value.

4 Adapt your pitch

Once you land an interview, you need to convince the hiring manager that you are the right fit for the role and the organization. This means you need to adapt your pitch to suit the for-profit context and audience. Show that you understand the mission, vision, and values of the company and how they relate to your own. Explain how your nonprofit fundraising skills and experience can help the company achieve its goals and solve its problems. Provide concrete examples of how you have raised funds, increased revenue, or generated value for your previous or current nonprofit employers. Anticipate and address any potential concerns or objections that the hiring manager might have about your nonprofit background, such as your salary expectations, your adaptability, or your motivation.

5 Keep learning and growing

If you succeed in switching from nonprofit to for-profit fundraising, congratulations! You have made a significant career change that can open up new doors and opportunities for you. However, don't stop there. Keep learning and growing as a professional and as a person. Seek feedback, mentorship, and coaching from your peers, managers, and customers. Take advantage of any training, development, or certification programs that are available or relevant to your role. Stay updated on the latest trends, best practices, and innovations in the for-profit fundraising sector. And most importantly, enjoy the journey and celebrate your achievements.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?