If you're a military member considering transitioning into the nonprofit sector, don't let misconceptions about nonprofit work stop you. Here are some helpful tips and resources.
First, don't assume nonprofit jobs can't meet your salary expectations. Like the private sector, compensation varies greatly across the sector depending on the size of the organization as well as the level of the position and your experience level.
If doing meaningful work with other service-minded and mission-driven professionals appeals to you, at least do some research to determine whether your target job offers a compensation package you can live with. If not, but you still feel a need to serve a higher purpose, consider looking for similar opportunities in the private sector in “B corps” (certified B corporations, which use profits to positively impact employees, communities, or the environment-think Ben & Jerry's or Patagonia) or within the corporate responsibility division of a company of interest.
As early as possible, prepare for a transition to the nonprofit world by volunteering for organizations aligned with your interest areas; networking and conducting informational interviews with association and nonprofit professionals, preferably including visits to a number of organizations of varying sizes; and accessing informal and/or formal education on nonprofit leadership. Also do a self-assessment. Just as you would for the private sector, you need to figure out what you want to do at an organization (i.e., program development, project management, finance) so you can look for opportunities and articulate your desires.
A few resources to check out for information about and opportunities in the nonprofit sector include:
