Whilst studying at university, one of the big questions posed to us was “How could we create a positive impact in the communities we lived in?” It is something that has truly stuck with me as I stepped outside Uni and commenced my career journey.
At the time, as a student, creating a positive impact may have been done by volunteering, recycling unwanted furniture at the end of the year, or even keeping the noise down after 10pm. But with graduation looming, I wanted to ensure I continued this and began to draw up a list of things I was looking for in life after Uni.
I knew I wanted to find a career that would serve as a route to continue making a positive impact – one that would feel meaningful and give me a sense of purpose. Other bonus criteria included a good work-life balance, with hybrid working and even possibly volunteering days! This would allow me to spend more time with friends and family, travelling, and keep up with my hobby (water sports). Identifying these key factors helped me focus on what I was specifically looking for in an employer and job role.
I originally thought the only way to find a job with these benefits would be at a large corporate organisation, but I soon found that the not-for-profit sector offered a whole range of purposeful jobs with benefits that were just as competitive! As someone who wasn’t familiar with the sector, I was hit by the broad range of roles from fundraising assistants and policy advisers to support workers and the wealth of charities taking on new graduates, each championing an important cause.
During my time at university, some of the more poignant classes went in depth into numerous issues from environmental destruction, to violence against women and children, as well as poverty reduction and alleviation. With the wealth of charities and NGOs working across the globe to tackle these issues, it was overwhelming searching through the pages of organisations hiring graduates into entry level roles. Whilst I was searching, I found that the roles which stood out to me spoke at length about their mission and the impact I could be a part of by joining along with what the culture was like at their organisation. This was my lightbulb moment, being able to picture myself being part of a cause for good, making impactful change to society and improving the lives of others. This is how I ultimately found my role at Prospectus. Being able to work and partner with numerous charities was incredibly appealing. I instantly felt a connection as they spoke about working on a non-commission basis and respecting the different ways in which staff work and they also offered volunteering days!
Since joining I have been able to immediately create a positive impact by using my role to connect other people with purpose. As part of the Recruitment Advertising Team, I partner with a variety of inspiring not-for-profit organisations. I negotiate and buy media space on their behalf, both online and offline, to promote their vacancies. As well as advising on the best methods for attracting diverse talent and even providing guidance on EDI Best Practice. One of the highlights of my role is getting to share my expertise and knowledge with HR teams across the country which has transformed into many wonderful business relationships. I love getting out and meeting clients in person for catchups as well as hosting webinars to connect my clients with purpose.
On the personal side, I have been able to combine my love for being on the water with giving back. I’m really grateful to have volunteer days included in my role and I have since joined Planet Patrol clean ups – litter-picking on my paddleboard. Another big benefit has been the hybrid working – allowing me to work all over the country in co-working spaces or at friends’ houses, whilst working alongside my team in our central London office.
The not-for-profit sector provides me with a sense of purpose every day at work. The tasks I get up to, whether on the water or at my desk, give the greatest sense of fulfilment – knowing that I’m able to continue making a positive impact on society.
