I'm interested in a cooperative environment rather than a competitive one and one that accommodates my preferred work/ life balance (as my wife and I have a toddler and are expecting another child in November). How should I navigate that selection process? What tools might I use?
Answers
Hi Dominic:
I see from your bio that you are tentatively graduating from the University of Pennsylvania this December . First of all congratulations; you’re graduating from an excellent school which should provide you with various employment options.
I respect your desire to work in the non- profit space. Just realize non-profits have their own unique challenges, particularly now. I suggest you first network with members of your school’s alumni association who are currently working for non-profits . This will give you a better sense of what is available and what may be a good fit .
I see you mentioned your plans are to eventually pursue a MBA . With all due respect to the non-profit world, I think an MBA may be overkill. Plus, if your intent is to achieve a life/ work balance, why devote so much time to an educational program better suited to those pursuing careers in the for-profit world? A better choice may be a program in non-profit management .
Whatever you decide, best of luck to you .
Regards
John Volpe
I have a different answer to suggest. Generally high growth companies which have slogans like "Move Fast and Break Things" are competitive places to work. Enterprises like Credit Unions, mutual insurance companies and NonProfits, which essentially have no profit motive will provide a much less demanding environment. They also may pay less! Read Mission Statements and other corporate goal statements and see if you can align your goals with the corporate goals provided by potential employers. Check out USAA.
You are in a tough situation-navigating your 'wants', against the 'needs' of your growing family. In truth, no one can really reveal what any company is really like because its all about how the people they hire can make their company more successful. The only way you can have the cooperative environment you seek is to create your own by starting your own business. I suggest you first attend to your priorities-get a job, gain the experience, save a few dollars, then start your own business while you still have the security of a paycheck and create your own perfect workplace for others to join.
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