When MBAs work for nonprofit organizations it can be a “cross-cultural experience” for both sides. Even students who have held nonprofit or public sector jobs before often find that business school has changed their perspective and/or vocabulary more than they realized. The cross-cultural analogy leads to the following advice:
Withhold judgment
Some differences between the nonprofit and private sectors are obvious—nonprofits generally have more relaxed dress standards, for example. Other differences are much more subtle, a matter of attitudes and assumptions. Keep an open mind. Things that initially look dysfunctional to you may work well for the organization, and may even be an essential part of the organization’s culture.
Be flexible
By the standards of many people in the nonprofit sector (and some in the private sector), MBAs are very task-oriented. Nonprofit staff are often as interested in process as in outcome. Your ability to focus and get things done is important; however, use your judgment how best to employ it.
Pay attention to language
MBAs often don’t realize how much biz-speak (“leverage,” “upside potential,” etc.) dominates their vocabulary. Be sure to communicate your passion for the mission as well as your ability to get the job done. Even business-savvy nonprofit employers want to know that you can relate comfortably to a wide range of audiences.
See our tips on how to tailor your resume and cover letter for your nonprofit job search!