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Beginning a Career in the Charity Sector

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Beginning a career in the charity sector

Want to begin a career in the charity sector but don’t know where to start? Here are our thoughts on how to take your first steps…

When asking yourself about what you want from a job, if ‘making a difference’ comes near the top of your list, a career in the charity sector might be the right direction for you. Although this industry can’t always promise the highest of salaries, what it does guarantee is the chance to contribute to meaningful projects, meet inspirational people and have a positive impact on the lives of others.

Opportunities at small charities and community foundations don’t come up often, so when they do, you’re going to want to ensure you stand out from the crowd. In order to do so, the following steps – along with a good dose of passion and practicality - will get you off to a good start.

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1. Find your passion.
The charity sector is full of opportunities to make a difference, but success begins with finding a cause you’re truly passionate about. Whether it’s poverty reduction, environmental protection, or human rights, aligning your values with your work will fuel your motivation and resilience.
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2. Leverage your skills.
Don’t assume you need specific charity experience to break in. Many skills from other sectors—like project management, marketing, and finance—are in high demand. You may find that the expertise you’ve developed through other experiences translates easily into charity work, where resourcefulness and cross-functional skills are highly valued.
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3. Volunteer and network.
If you’re thinking about starting a career in the sector, volunteering is one of the best ways to gain insight and build connections. Many charities rely on volunteers, which can open doors to full-time opportunities. Networking with professionals in the sector—either through LinkedIn or charity events—can also help you learn about roles and organisations that align with your goals.
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4. Be ready for challenges.
While charity work offers meaningful rewards, it also comes with unique challenges. Limited resources, tight budgets, and emotionally taxing projects are common. But if you’re resilient and adaptable, the impact you create can be incredibly fulfilling.
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5. Focus on the mission.
Unlike corporate careers, success in the charity world isn’t measured by financial gain but by the positive change you help bring about. While salaries may sometimes be lower, many professionals find that the personal satisfaction and sense of purpose far outweigh monetary benefits.

At Social Research Builders, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation of change-makers and encouraging young people to consider a career in the charity sector. That’s why we’re proud to offer unique placement opportunities which give the chance to develop practical skills that go beyond the classroom. You’ll also be able to connect with professionals in the charity sector, which in turn opens doors to valuable connections and mentorship opportunities that will broaden your career prospects.

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