Nonprofit job search firms can help you find everything from a membership director to an agro-specialist. These firms specialize in the needs of not-for-profit charitable, humanitarian and educational organizations. Nonprofit job search firms often maintain databases of job seekers in addition to doing customized searches for nonprofit employers.

Most nonprofit recruiters charge a fee based on either the projected salary for the position you need to fill or on the type and extent of the services the recruiter provides. Make sure you read any agreements carefully and compare the fees of several nonprofit search firms before signing on the dotted line. Keep these things in mind when picking nonprofit search firms:

1. Work with established nonprofit recruiting agencies with a good reputation. Check references from both employers and job seekers.

2. Choose not-for-profit search firms that have a passion for finding the best candidates possible.

3. Select a firm based on their knowledge of your organization's mission or industry.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find top executive talent with a nonprofit executive search firm

When you need an experienced, executive-level professional, you should work with nonprofit search firms that have the right contacts. An executive search firm makes it their business to know which professionals in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors are looking to make a move.

I recommend: DRG has been providing executive searches for philanthropic organizations since 1987. They work closely with their clients to find the best candidate for the job. The Bryant Group is another established nonprofit executive search firm.

Work with not-for-profit search firms that specialize in higher education

Universities and colleges often must expand their search beyond the local community. Nonprofit search firms who work only with educational institutions make a regional or national search easier.

I recommend: When you need to recruit top-quality faculty, turn to Carney, Sandoe & Associates. The Spelman & Johnson Group specializes in the recruitment of administrators for higher education.

Select nonprofit recruiting firms who understand your mission

No matter what level of employee you seek, public sector search firms are ready to help you out. Some of these firms are nonprofits themselves so they fully understand the challenge of finding candidates who share your mission.

I recommend: Bridgestar works with you to find talented professionals. Partner with NonprofitOyster.com to find, screen and hire your next employee. People & Systems offer 4 different strategies to suit your recruitment needs.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Since many nonprofit sector search firms focus on executive talent, don't overlook traditional employment agencies when you need support staff.
• •  Contact the placement offices at local colleges and universities with your openings for entry-level positions. Many young men and women would like the opportunity to get work experience while supporting a cause they believe in.