Nonprofit Development Director – 5 Tips for Hiring & Effectiveness

Where do you find your best ngo development director?

Knowing how to hire and support a competent development director is crucial to your fundraising success.   As you may know, the data shows turn-over is high and qualified candidates are hard to find.

These 5 tips will help:

Number 1: Hire someone with 5 or more years’ experience at one organization and check references.

So, if you see a resume with 2 years or less in past positions, this candidate may be missing essential skills.  If you really like this person, read on.

Number 2: Hire for soft skills

Good soft skills include:

a passion for your mission

diplomacy

initiative

problem solving

Brainstorm other traits that fit your need and organizational culture

The “How to” stuff can be learned.

Number 3: Provide ongoing professional development. 

Hiring a consultant to mentor your DDs can be a very wise investment.  Negotiate a number of hours/month that fits your budget. To discuss hiring me, schedule a free discovery call here: https://calendly.com/elizabeth_at_kro...

Also provide online courses, seminars, and scheduled time at development staff computer for searching the Kresge Foundation library or asking questions in LinkedIn professional groups.

Number 4: To attract and keep the best, pay a competitive salary for your area.

Number 5: Personally connect your Development Director with your community. 

Then, ask your board members, colleagues, donors, and vendors to make introductions through their service clubs; business and LinkedIn connections.  Finally, service club membership dues are a worthwhile relationship-building business expense for your development staff. 

What other ideas have worked for you?  Share them in the comments below!

As always, I work for you and am hoping for your every success!

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