Not everyone’s dream job is the same.

Some people study for years with a specific goal in mind: becoming a lawyer, accountant or engineer. Others prefer to work with their hands and skip the college route altogether by apprenticing in skilled trades – like plumbing or welding – and getting on a fast track to high wages.

Still others, however, dream of working toward social or environmental change as their ideal career path. But this path is not always clear, and not always lucrative. The question arises: What can I offer to the causes that are close to my heart?

The good news is that if you’re truly passionate about a career in social change and public service, there are several basic skills that can get you started on the right path.

The Nonprofit Promotions Landscape

Nonprofits, though they don’t promote sales or services in the way for-profit companies do, must engage in marketing and brand development nonetheless. Nonprofits often partner with marketing and promotions firms that specialize in building campaigns targeting the promotion of charitable support via messages that reflect human values and inspire action. Given that they are also competing in the big marketplace of ideas, these marketing efforts must be savvy and discerning in building out their messaging campaigns.

So, working in the Nonprofit promotions sector can be challenging and rewarding. If you’re passionate about social change and enjoy strategic and creative thinking in the service of a worthy community, you might wish to explore a career in this sector.

Careers in Nonprofit Promotions: Motivation is Key

A job in Nonprofit promotions is a far cry from a usual job – it demands devotion and passion in order for it to resonate with the public in a way that gets them to open their hearts and wallets.

You represent a cause, and sincerity plays an important role in encouraging the public to get on board. By partnering with Nonprofits that resonate with your interests, you can build a career and make a difference at the same time.

Whether you are formulating media campaigns, arranging events or leveraging digital or social networks, flexibility is key. Developing a range of skills is helpful. It’s crucial to understand how to engage different audiences, as different generations respond to different approaches and messaging. Adaptability is a valuable skill in the workforce; no less so in the Nonprofit promotions sector.

Technology and Nonprofit Promotion 

Technology has become an integral part of marketing and promotions, including in planning and presenting at in-person events. Hosting engaging events and keeping everyone happy while delivering messages that resonate is no small challenge. The range of skills runs from hospitality to pulling off spectacular multimedia presentations. Virtual events on social media and via webinars are also an integral part of nonprofit promotion. So, learning some or all of these skills could be your ticket.

Typically, entry-level gigs in Nonprofit promotions could be anything from door-to-door canvassing, distributing flyers, and staffing a booth at events, to social media management and helping out on the technical side. Eventually, roles in campaign design and planning may become available. College training may or may not be required.

A Career Case Study: Elite Generations

Based in Dallas, Texas, Elite Generations is a marketing firm centered on creating engaging events and other marketing efforts for their Nonprofit partners. Working with local and national organizations, the company hires people who thrive on giving back to their communities. Elite Generations creates interactive community events designed to increase donor bases, community impact and awareness for the beneficiaries’ causes.

According to Elite Generations, here are the reasons nonprofits should consider them for their marketing efforts:

 

• Strengthening relationships: Elite Generations helps charities build long-lasting relationships and secure support in the local community.
• Raising awareness: the agency concentrates on informing society about charities’ main purpose, making sure their messages serve the intended purpose.
• Donor base growth: by using pioneering fundraising campaigns the agency seeks to expand the charitable partner’s revenue base.
• Increased engagement: Elite Generations is focused on continually developing new forms of fundraising so that campaigns remain fresh and exciting and ensure involvement and goodwill for partner’s causes.

 

If you’re considering a career in Nonprofit promotions, check out the work of Elite Generations and their efforts to create charitable events and perform direct marketing. You can inquire about opportunities with Elite Generations here.

Whichever agency or cause you choose to pursue, working for a purpose remains a very appealing prospect for job seekers of all ages. Good luck with your search!