benefits of this sector

The days when the nfp sector stood for a second-class career are long over. While it's true that small charities still can't compete in terms of salary with the best paying private sector employers, many are finding this is more than compensated by the advantages the sector has to offer.

One major draw is the quality of life you get in the sector. Not-for-profit organisations have been quick to realise the merits of a good work-life balance, so often offer much more flexible working conditions than their private sector counterparts. Part-time working and job-sharing are now the norm in many organisations, which is a huge benefit for those with family and other outside commitments.

That is not to say you can't have a seriously fulfilling career in the nfp sector. To the contrary, the opportunities for career progression are huge, especially now that the not-for-profit arena is so big and diverse. Skills such as strategic thinking, project management, fundraising and public relations, which are core to many voluntary organisations, are now easily transferable throughout the sector.

Likewise, the old stereotype of charities being run by well-meaning amateurs seems to be finally disappearing. Not-for-profit organisations place a huge premium on professional skills and training, and many have now adopted the same advanced management techniques of the most successful corporations.

Last but not least, there's the unique sense of job satisfaction the nfp sector offers. Many are attracted by the notion of not having to work in some faceless conglomerate for some imaginary bottom line. Still more enjoy the good their work has on lives and communities. So if you're looking to have a positive impact on the world around you, the not-for-profit sector is a great place to start.

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