Last month we discussed how important it is to learn how committed your future boss is to leading the development effort for your nonprofit, and this month’s advise deals with the questions the wise job seeker will ask about office atmosphere and the organization’s day-to-day working environment.
The number one reason that jobs turn over is the lack of good communication between the employee and his/her immediate supervisor. So, asking probing questions BEFORE you take the job is our wisest counsel.
Here are some “management” questions for the new job seeker to consider:
- What is the management style of the person to whom I’ll be reporting?
- What does the day-to-day operating environment look like?
- In what ways will this position help me stretch my professional capabilities?
- Is there money in the budget for my professional development (training, membership fees for the Association of Fundraising Professionals, conferences, etc.)?
- What are the fundraising expectations for my position? How much money will I specifically be required to raise?
- How often will I be reviewed and provided feedback on how well I am doing?
- What are the expectations regarding evening and weekend work?
The savvy job applicant will come prepared with questions like these, so that at the conclusion of the interview, you will know what your job expectations are, what kind of atmosphere you’ll be working within, and what kind of management style your future supervisor possesses. These are major factors in determining whether the job is a good fit for you.