When we’re under pressure, it is normal to revert to what we’ve done successfully before. When a woman doesn’t respond as anticipated and, in fact, asks more questions, gives less than asked or doesn’t agree to be on a board, we turn and focus on those who do respond in the way we prefer. But we risk sub-optimizing what this woman might give us after she is satisfied with her due diligence.
Our best practices in American philanthropy were created with primarily one donor profile in mind: a white, straight man. It’s time to reexamine our approach and include more identities.
People who focus on the negative, or allow the focus of a conversation to shift to the negative, rarely get the job.
Experienced administrators and board members recognize an outstanding advancement officer when they meet and work with one, even as they recognize a true philanthropic partner. One of the greatest gifts these leaders can make to their organizations is to act upon that recognition.
Thanks to our partners, Aspen Leadership Group has been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best Executive Recruiting Firms (2019). As an executive search and consulting firm who believes that relationships matter, we are excited that our work and the enduring relationships we have developed with our clients and candidates have been recognized by Forbes. ALG was ranked among the top 200 executive search firms specialized in filling senior leadership roles.
Yet fundraisers—even highly experienced ones—often bungle the online interview, executive recruiters say. Here are tips from recruiters and search committee participants to help you prepare for your next interview.
Regardless of scale of need, every organization will benefit from a thoughtful, inclusive consideration of the board’s collective leadership responsibility.
Interviews are an opportunity to confirm to the hiring committee that you will be an asset to their team. Learn how to prepare, showcase strengths, and avoid common mistakes.
While your résumé highlights your experience and qualifications—the “hard” skills that you possess—your cover letter offers the hiring manager insights into your passion and suitability for the organization’s mission.
CFOs and CDOs should recognize the different demands of their jobs and the likelihood that they will have different orientations and personalities, and to see these as complementary strengths rather than as a reason for conflict.
