Nonprofit Management And Staffing
Discover the art of strategic management and effective staffing in our collection of training video courses–dedicated to the unique needs of nonprofits and NGO’s. Dive into crucial facets of successful executive leadership, exploring everything from team building and volunteer coordination to performance management and conflict resolution. These array of lessons, from Top Nonprofit Sector Experts, illuminate the complexities of managing a nonprofit, offering you actionable insights and practical tactics to elevate your organization. You’ll find ways to assemble a passionate team, who shares your mission, with in-depth guidance on cultivating a positive work culture, fostering employee engagement, and keeping your staff motivated, regardless of the challenges that arise.
Insights into the complexities of labor and executive recruitment (aka headhunting or poaching) within the nonprofit sector. Led by Katie Warnock, CEO and founder of Staffing Boutique. Host Julia Patrick sets the stage by reflecting on the tumultuous changes the nonprofit workforce is witnessing, describing it as "incredibly diverse" and almost "schizophrenic." Katie echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the drastic transformation from the past to the present, wondering if the nonprofit labor force will ever return to its previous state.
Katie highlights a significant shift in work ethic, noting that prioritizing mental health, family, and home has become a cross-generational trend, challenging traditional notions of commitment and consistency in the corporate world. As she puts it, "People do not care, and it doesn't matter what age you're at." This observation leads to a discussion about the challenges faced by both employers and staffing firms like Staffing Boutique in navigating this landscape.
The conversation transitions to the topic of headhunting, a crucial aspect of executive recruitment, particularly in the nonprofit sector. Katie provides a look into the process, emphasizing the importance of industry-specific expertise and confidentiality, especially when replacing key leadership positions. She sheds light on the fee structure of headhunting services, outlining the typical payment model based on a percentage of the hired candidate's first-year salary.
In the fast-changing world of nonprofits, staying true to mission while resisting the allure of scope creep can be a challenging dance. Miriam Dicks, founder and CEO of 180 Management Group, recently shed light on this topic during a riveting chat with hosts Mitch Stein and Sherry Quam Taylor.
Miriam begins by defining scope creep, drawing parallels to its militaristic synonym, mission creep. She shares the webster definition, "Mission creep is a gradual shift in objectives during the course of a military campaign, often resulting in unplanned long-term commitments." She then links this definition to the nonprofit landscape, highlighting the challenges of altering objectives mid-campaign, akin to navigating the ever-changing battlefield of nonprofit work.
The interesting interview digs into the root causes of scope creep,
The role of leadership development in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing the need for leaders to be adaptable, self-aware, and mission-focused to effectively guide their organizations through challenging times, shared in a compelling dialogue with two notable experts in nonprofit leadership development, John Tiso, Director of Client Services at JMT Consulting, and Dr. John Davidoff, founder and Chief Mission Officer of Davidoff Mission-Driven Business Strategy. This dynamic interview explores nonprofit leadership, and the importance of fostering a mission-driven culture and continuous leadership development.
John Tiso shared insights into how JMT Consulting supports nonprofits with comprehensive back-office solutions, highlighting their commitment to enhancing leadership skills within these organizations. Reflecting on his personal growth, he shares, "Leadership started off in the classic perspective of it being about title and role, but meeting Dr. John challenged my assumptions and nurtured my development for over six years."
Dr. John Davidoff describes his firm's role in helping nonprofits become genuinely mission-driven by integrating continuous leadership development and a drama-free, high-functioning culture into their strategic planning
Navigating the relationship between nonprofit accounting and development departments. With a focus on collaboration and understanding, how these two essential facets of nonprofit organizations can work harmoniously for success,
Mental and physical burnout in the nonprofit sector is an unfortunate reality, but there are ways to address it constructively. Meico Whitlock, founder of Mindful Techie, shares insights on how to protect ourselves from the ravages of nonprofit work.
Meico introduces a refreshing perspective on navigating burnout, urging us to change the conversation, with guidance that begins with, "We're not chasing dollars or titles; we're driven by a personal mission to leave the world better than we found it." With that thought in mind, rather than a reactive approach, he advocates for proactive steps toward well-being. He believes in addressing burnout collectively and individually, offering a Change Framework comprising six commitments: Connect to Your Why, Honor Your Priorities, Acknowledge Limiting Beliefs, Negotiate Boundaries, Generate Inner Space, and Embody Well-being.
Throughout the conversation, Meico and the co-hosts, Wendy Adams and Julia Patrick, dig into the nuances of recognizing burnout. From increased sick days to withdrawal from colleagues, the signs are varied but crucial to acknowledge. Meico reminds us that self-care isn't separate from the work; it is the work. By starting small, such as reaching out to HR for support or seeking medical advice, individuals can gradually reclaim balance.
The discussion unfolds into practical advice for individuals and organizations alike. Meico emphasizes simplicity, urging listeners to distill action plans down to what fits on an index card. He encourages a mindful, step-by-step approach, fostering a culture of grace and compassion toward oneself and others.
In the end, the fast-paced discussion will leave you with a profound insight: preventing burnout requires a shift in mindset and action. It's about honoring our well-being while still making a meaningful impact.
For more wisdom from Meico Whitlock and to explore his book, visit mindfultechie.com and find "When Work Doesn't Love You Back" on Amazon. Embrace well-being as an integral part of your mission-driven life.
The transformative power of technology in leveling the playing field in nonprofit finance. Jackie Tiso, CEO of JMT Consulting, discusses finding answers to finance-tech questions for nonprofits. Jackie shares JMT Consulting's remarkable journey as a remote company serving nonprofits for over 30 years and elaborates on the evolution of technology and its impact on nonprofit operations, stressing the importance of financial management over traditional accounting practices. She speaks to the significance of seeking expertise from various sources, including online resources, conferences, and partnerships with specialized consultants. Jackie outlines how nonprofits can embrace the integration of diverse tools and expertise, emphasizing collaboration over competition in the sector. She explores the challenge of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements and advocates for a disciplined approach to continuous learning and knowledge sharing within the nonprofit community.
Preventing fraud in nonprofit organizations, with key strategies and actionable tips, for organizations to mitigate risks and maintain financial integrity. In today's digital age, nonprofit organizations face an array of challenges, including the looming threat of fraud. Jennifer Alleva, CEO of Your Part-Time Controller, sheds light on implementing robust strategies to safeguard against fraudulent activities, outlining the role of internal controls, proper oversight, and proactive measures in mitigating risks. As she aptly puts it, "Fraud happens too often, and nonprofits are not immune to it."
Jennifer begins by explaining the misconception that nonprofits are inherently safe from fraudulent activities, highlighting real-life cases where organizations fell victim to internal and external threats. From cyber risks to insider fraud, she stresses the significance of a vigilant approach, starting with establishing a culture of integrity and accountability at the top. Jennifer offers, "A top-down approach is essential, with the board and executive management setting the tone for ethical conduct and robust internal controls."
Continuing, Jennifer gives insights into preventing fraud, including the necessity of background checks for personnel involved in financial management and the importance of segregating duties to avoid concentration of power. She emphasizes the need for regular financial reporting and analysis, urging board members to actively engage in monitoring financial activities. Jennifer suggests, "Board members have a responsibility to ask questions and seek clarity on financial matters, regardless of their expertise."
In the digital realm, Jennifer warns against complacency and urges organizations to stay informed and proactive. She highlights the growing threat of cyber fraud, such as phishing attacks, and emphasizes the importance of continuous education and awareness among staff and board members.
You’ll learn how preventing fraud is not just about mitigating risks but also about fostering organizational resilience and trust. By implementing robust internal controls, maintaining transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability, nonprofits can safeguard their financial integrity and fulfill their missions effectively.
Nonprofit’s asked; Are donors always right? Why don’t nonprofit’s pay commissions? How should fundraisers cover expenses? Should nonprofits apply for as many grants as possible?
The host, with guest host LaShonda Williams, from Fundraising Academy, addressed these topics with expert insightful responses, focused on strategic thinking in nonprofit fundraising. They emphasize the need for alignment between grant applications and an organization's existing programs, highlighting the potential wastefulness of pursuing grants unrelated to their mission. LaShonda also provides practical advice on ethical fundraising practices, including the significance of donor and fundraiser rights, while cautioning against toxic donor relationships. Furthermore, she points to the value of clear communication and due diligence in grant writing and expense management, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and ethical conduct in the nonprofit sector. Additionally, LaShonda and Julia promote the upcoming Cultivate conference, designed to empower professionals at all levels within the nonprofit landscape and offering actionable insights into effective fundraising strategies.
The benefits of strategic volunteer management for nonprofits, ranging from enhanced organizational reputation to increased community engagement. Insights on the intricate dynamics of volunteer-staff interactions, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning and effective communication in leveraging volunteer resources for nonprofit success, with Dana Scurlock, the Director of Recruitment from Staffing Boutique. With over a decade of experience in nonprofit staffing, Dana offers valuable insights into the dynamic relationship between volunteers and staff in nonprofit organizations.
Dana emphasizes Staffing Boutique's exclusive focus on the nonprofit sector, serving clients ranging from small to mid-sized organizations in the New York City metro area and beyond. She highlights the firm's role in identifying candidates for temporary assignments or direct hire placements, alleviating the recruitment burden for nonprofit hiring managers.
One key aspect Dana addresses is the cost-benefit analysis of utilizing volunteers within nonprofit organizations. She acknowledges the crucial role volunteers play in certain operations, such as running soup kitchens or food pantries, but also emphasizes the need for strategic evaluation, especially in grant-making bodies where volunteer staffing might be less feasible.
Dana points to the importance of professional volunteer management, particularly in smaller organizations that may lack dedicated volunteer coordinators. She suggests formal orientation processes to ensure volunteers feel valued, welcomed, and equipped to contribute effectively to the organization's mission.
Dana also describes the potential for volunteers to serve as ambassadors for nonprofits, spreading awareness and championing their causes within their networks. She stresses the significance of offering volunteers meaningful experiences, whether through skill development opportunities, networking prospects, or resume-building activities.
A fresh and striking perspective on relational leadership, focusing on aligning goals with nonprofit’s mission and fostering a culture of compassionate accountability within nonprofit organizations, with Wendy F. Adams, CFRE, from Cultivate for Good. Wendy gives the keys to building stronger team-leader relationships, setting meaningful goals, and fostering a culture of excellence within nonprofits.
Wendy launches the fast-paced conversation by highlighting the essence of relational leadership, stating, "We've got to start with the leader. Where are you in this space. Are you able to be self-aware." She emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize their role in driving progress and addressing challenges head-on, stressing the importance of authenticity, stating, "We know that our supporters and our donors... they can sniff out anything that's not authentic.", then, continuing by pointing to the necessity of believing in the mission, stating, "Do you as the leader believe that your mission is possible?" She emphasizes the value of collaboration in tackling ambitious goals within the nonprofit sector.
The conversation then shifts to the practical aspects of goal-setting, with Wendy introducing the concept of "SMART goals" infused with relational principles, emphasizing the importance of goals being loyal to the mission, lasting, and measurable. She offers more on the need for leaders to nurture a culture where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than barriers to progress.
The conversation sheds light on the role of compassionate accountability in driving organizational success. Wendy shares personal anecdotes and insights, stressing the need for leaders to empathize with their team members while holding them accountable to their commitments, stating, "We're going to do this together as a leader... I'm going to be empathetic and keep you accountable and responsible to what you said."
For those seeking to learn more about Wendy F. Adams and her approach to relational leadership in nonprofits, visit Cultivate for Good at cultivateforgood.com.
Nonprofit fundraising strategies, NPO marketing with branding, Donor relationships, Board governance, and professional development for nonprofits are the question topics on this episode. Cohosts Julia Patrick and Jack Alotto respond with wisdom and some fun, into topics ranging from fundraising strategies to board governance. One key topic discussed was the importance of branding and personalized communication tools in nonprofit development efforts. Jack emphasized the significance of having a distinct brand to differentiate oneself in a competitive landscape, stating, "A brand is what distinguishes you from other nonprofits in your community." He stresses the role of branded postcards and handwritten notes in strengthening donor relationships, highlighting their ability to keep the organization top of mind. Julia and Jack also address fundraising tactics, including the debate between data-driven pitches and emotional storytelling. Jack points out the importance of understanding donor motivations, whether they lean towards rational data points or emotional connections. Additionally, the discussion touches on board dynamics, with caution against appointing employees as voting members due to potential conflicts of interest. Instead, the hosts advocate more for diverse board representation, including beneficiaries of the organization's services. The session concludes with Jack sharing details about upcoming CFRE training sessions and an AFP conference in Toronto.
The origins of financial fear for nonprofits, how to ask for crucial information tied to impact, and the importance of aligning financial data with the nonprofit’s organizational missions. Featuring guest Jacqueline Tiso, the CEO of JMT Consulting. With an emphasis on innovation and strategic anticipation, this conversation provides actionable insights for nonprofit leaders seeking to navigate financial challenges.
Nonprofit organizations often grapple with financial anxiety. Jackie is recognized for her expertise in nonprofit financial management. She’ll highlight the need to address the roots of financial fear and adopt a proactive approach to financial decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of aligning financial strategies with organizational objectives on impact, urging leaders to embrace innovation.
Jackie amplifies on the critical role of the finance department as a service provider within the organization, noting, "The Finance Office is a service department for the rest of an organization. The customers of that finance department are the program managers, the grant managers, the CEO, board members, funders, everyone... The information has to be understandable for who you're delivering it to."
Moreover, Jackie describes the necessity of leveraging technology to streamline financial processes and enhance decision-making. She says, "Our poor organizations, they're in a rowboat when it comes to technology. When you want to be forward-focused, you can't do this stuff in Excel... You just can't make it happen in Excel unless you had one or two people, and that's all they did all day long."
By incorporating Jackie’s insights into your operations, it will help cultivate a culture of transparency, efficiency, and strategic planning, ensuring sustainable growth and impactful outcomes for your nonprofit, NGO, or charity.
The intricacies of nonprofit staffing with guest Patrick Gnehm, the CEO and founder of Talent Sync. Patrick speaks to the challenges nonprofits face in hiring staff while operating on tight budgets. With a focus on strategic growth, Patrick outlined the unique approach his firm takes to assist nonprofits in building their talent pipelines effectively.
Patrick begins with pointing to aligning organizational needs with strategic outreach efforts, stating, "When you're looking at building a nonprofit pipeline, we need to think about defining our needs and strategically reaching out to potential candidates." He highlights the significance of engaging existing volunteers and promoting from within to foster a culture of growth and development within organizations.
Patrick describes the often-overlooked aspect of succession planning within nonprofits, urging organizations to invest in their employees' professional development to mitigate the costly repercussions of high turnover rates. He says, "It's more affordable to invest resources in existing employees to help them grow and mature within the organization rather than constantly replacing departing staff members."
The fast-paced conversation peeks into the evolving landscape of remote work and its implications for nonprofit staffing with Patrick discussing the merits of both in-person and remote work setups, acknowledging the diverse needs and preferences of nonprofit organizations.
Nonprofit organizations are given 'Hot Tips' to improve their budgeting processes in 2024, emphasizing principles of inclusivity, evidence-based decision-making, and proactive planning, with our guest, Justine Townsend, Manager at Your Part Time Controller.
Justine begins with the critical importance of laying the groundwork for success before embarking on the budgeting process, ensuring that the budget remains usable and effective throughout its entire lifecycle. She directs us on the need for inclusivity by involving all relevant stakeholders in the budgeting discussions, including program managers and those responsible for smaller financial decisions. Justine humorously shares "A budget should be like a camel, created by committee," highlighting the collaborative nature of the process and the importance of leveraging diverse perspectives to create a good financial plan.
She explores the significance of basing budgets on historical data, especially during uncertain times such as post-COVID recovery, suggesting using comparable years to inform budgeting decisions, which may yield a more accurate foundation for financial planning. Justine's advice to "dig into historical data" reflects her resolve for evidence-based budgeting practices, which enhance the accuracy and reliability of any financial projections.
Documenting assumptions and pre-planning pivots emerge as crucial strategies advocated by Justine to navigate budgetary challenges more effectively. By transparently communicating assumptions and contingency plans, organizations can create a framework for adaptive decision-making. Justine's shares, "When you plan your pivots, you create a permission structure where you're allowed to not make budget," which fosters a culture where deviations from the budget are viewed as “opportunities for problem-solving" rather than failures.
Justine spends time on the reasoning behind converting budgets to accrual-based financial statements to facilitate more accurate assessments of financial performance, which in turn will aid scenario planning and forecasting, enabling organizations to proactively anticipate and respond to changing circumstances.
Anthony A. Dicks Jr., the senior leadership consultant at 180 Management Group, begins his advice on self-care and burnout with the idea, "It's not selfish to put your mask on first because your asset is your mind, and without those natural elements like oxygen feeding your mind, you won't be in a position to help the helpless."
Anthony recently discussed overcoming the burnout barrier in the nonprofit sector, sharing that experiencing burnout can actually be a sign of exceptional leadership and maximizing one's capacity. He stated, "If you have reached your capacity, then that means you still have an opportunity to grow and do some more." This perspective reframes burnout as a signal to reassess and adjust one's approach rather than a failure.
With his energetic and insightful approach, Anthony shed light on the importance of recognizing burnout early and implementing strategies for self-care and sustainable performance.
In the conversation, Anthony emphasizes the need for a proactive approach to self-care rather than waiting until burnout becomes inevitable. He shares the mission of 180 Management Group, a consulting firm specializing in organizational transformation for nonprofits, focusing on operations, leadership, and strategic planning.
Anthony elaborates on the importance of developing rituals for rest, reset, and recovery across physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual dimensions. He introduces us to the concept of "right, read, run, rest, review, repeat" as a systematic approach to maintaining optimal performance and avoiding burnout. By scheduling regular periods for reflection and self-care, individuals can effectively manage their energy levels and sustain their impact in the long term.
Anthony also points out the significance of using data, such as wearables tracking stress levels, to inform organizational practices and support employee well-being. He underscores the need for leaders to model self-care behaviors and create a culture that prioritizes holistic health.
Explore the Country’s largest collection of current nonprofit learning and training videos from the top Social Impact and Nonprofit Sector Leaders!
Keyword Search: