Recruiting for any position is labor intensive, and that’s especially true for fundraisers, says Lois L. Lindauer, a recruiter who specializes in filling senior development positions. Top-notch candidates are scarce and fundraisers are often very polished and articulate, which means organizations will sometimes need to do some extra probing to determine if they are truly a good fit.
Here Ms. Lindauer outlines her tips to identify and hire candidates who are right for your organization.
1. Identify the skills and qualities needed for the position.
2. Decide who will interview potential candidates.
3. Create a calendar of what will happen.
4. Find a partner in human resources who understands that hiring for fundraisers often requires special compensation consideration.
5. Create a clear job description.
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Include reporting relationship.
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Set out the expected goals.
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Cite the experience required.
6. Give the candidate your undivided attention.
7. Make the candidate feel welcome and comfortable. Pick the interviewee up at the airport and have a bowl of fruit in his or her hotel room. Tell your staff that they are all recruiters during the candidate’s visit.
8. Highlight the positives about your institution and the position – and show your passion.
9. Be a good listener. Ask about the candidate’s interests and concerns and relate them to your job while also asking about the candidate’s impact in previous fundraising jobs.
10. Take the candidate to lunch or dinner. Watch his or her table manners and social behavior.
11. Show the candidate around your office or facility. These tours can be informative for the candidate and help the person feel more at ease to ask questions.
12. Treat candidates as you would a donor. Spend time listening and getting to know candidates, their goals, and how they can achieve them through your organization.
Lois L. Lindauer is chief executive and founder of Lois L. Lindauer Searches, a Boston-based recruiting firm that performs executive searches for nonprofit organizations seeking experienced fundraisers.