Jobs for Change - 2 Things to Do for Your Nonprofit Career This Labor Day Weekend

2 Things to Do for Your Nonprofit Career This Labor Day Weekend

Published September 03, 2009 @ 01:02PM PT

I know, I know, everyone is out and about trying to make the best of this last sunny (at least in DC) weekend of summer. Amidst all the barbeques and road trips, though, don't forget to take a little time to do something for your nonprofit career. Even if you're not currently job-seeking, you should use any downtime you have this weekend to prepare in case you get laid off unexpectedly.

Update Your Resume

Have you volunteered in the past year? Add your experience as a bullet point on your resume. Also list any leadership roles you've held as a board member or as part of a professional association. Add or revise your position description under your current job experience, especially if your responsibilities have changed. Did your job title change? Be sure to update that, too. And while you're at it, go ahead and refresh your online profiles on Facebook and LinkedIn as well. Since you never know when a job opportunity could come up, it's best to have your online professional identity up to date so potential employers can see just how talented and experienced you are.

Rekindle Professional Relationships

You say you never have time to email all those nice folks you met at that nonprofit conference or career fair last month. Well, now you do. Take part of the weekend to craft a nice note to express your enthusiasm in connecting with them. Use this as an opportunity to set up a coffee or lunch date in the near future to talk to them more about your job search or just to learn about their experience in the field. At the very least, sending a quick email now will remind them who you are when you need to ask a favor later. If you take the time to nurture your professional relationships, you never know how they will pay off for you in the future.

What are some other things you could be doing to advance your nonprofit career this weekend?

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Author

Rosetta is a blogger, fundraiser, and leadership development consultant who currently serves as the Director of Development and Special Programs at the Nonprofit Roundtable of Greater Washington.