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A typical job in the non-profit arena would require the following skills:

Commentary

Well-Suited to the Practical Idealist

You want to get rich? Forget it, not in this profession. The non-profit sector is typically not for the individual who is money driven. A non-profit wants an individual with a strong sense of community spirit and the desire to help others.

Creativity and Initiative are Important

You will be given opportunities to take charge and create a new event designed to communicate and sell the organization.

Every Day is Different

Non-profits typically do not require a lot of travel but they do have a wide diversity of daily activities. No two days may be alike. The ideal non-profiter is willing to adapt to whatever the needs are for the day or for the given project.

Hours May be Erratic

Are working hours 9 to 5? Sometimes. However, there are also occasions in which you may have to attend a dinner or special event after "hours." People that are comfortable in social situations can possess a distinct advantage in the non-profit sector.

Business skills are a distinct advantage.

Basic knowledge of accounting, finance, management, information systems, advertising, and of course, marketing will be an important differential advantage. Traditionally, the non-profits possessed poor business skills and only recently have business skills been recognized for their importance.

Can be Tough to Transition to the For-Profit Sector

Moving from other marketing careers to the non-profit sector should not be difficult. However, moving from the non-profits to the profit sector may be more difficult. Some employers will give you credit for good works. Depressingly, others may be indifferent.

Do it for the Right Reasons

For most people in the non-profit sector the advantages of a career in non-profit marketing are numerous but the "bottom-line" remains the opportunity to help others and return something of value to the community.