Recruit and retain outstanding fundraisers who grow with you

2. Look beyond the charity sector to recruit fundraisers

I have always advocated for fundraising teams to embrace talent from outside of the sector. Are there nuances to fundraising and the way charities operate? Yes, unequivocally. Is there a core transferable skillset that you can tap into to find exceptional and purpose-driven people? Yes!

Fundraising is about relationships at its core. Sales, marketing and customer-focused careers all provide a strong transferable skillset. When you welcome people with different professional backgrounds and lived experiences, you also bring in fresh perspectives, creativity and new ways of solving problems.

I’ve spoken with a multitude of fundraisers who came from the private sector and have excelled in a purpose-driven environment. This is why, as a recruiter, I won’t shy away from sourcing and sharing candidates who might not have had conventional pathways to even senior fundraising roles. The training and development people receive in the private sector means there can be inherent benefits from attracting talent from outside of charities.

When you recruit fundraisers, review your person specifications and job descriptions with an open mind. Are you unintentionally ruling out people with transferable skills or non-traditional experience who could bring real value to your team?

When people feel their different backgrounds and experiences are valued, they’re more likely to stay, grow and contribute fully to your mission.

Read more:Diversity within the fundraising profession