This is Part 3 of my five-part course on transitioning in purpose-driven careers. Each post stands alone, so whether you’re following along or just jumping in, today’s focus will help you position yourself effectively in your career transition.
Before you start applying for jobs or reaching out to contacts, you need to prepare to broadcast your message so that the right people understand your value.
Step 1: Define Your Target Marketplace
Your job search will be much more effective if you focus on a market where 10 to 50 job postings per month exist. If there are fewer, you job search may take longer so you will need to consider how you can extend the time before you have to work.
Consider the following factors when setting your marketplace:
✅ Geography – How far are you willing to commute, are you open to remote work or even relocation?
✅ Industry & Organization Type – Do you want to work for non-profits, for-profits or government? How would you define your industry?
✅ Size of Organization – Would you consider a small startup, mid-sized organdizations, or a large institution?
✅ Culture Fit – While culture can be hard to discern outside of an organization consider measureable indicators such as the percentage of women leaders or the organziation’s mission.
Use job search sites, company websites, and nonprofit financial records to assess opportunities.
Step 2: Create Your Positioning Statement
Your positioning statement is a short elevator pitch that you can use when talking with others and as a basis for communciation. You want it to appeal to your target market. It should be clear and compelling. Follow this structure:
1️⃣ Your professional identity in the present
2️⃣ Your key experience
3️⃣ The types of organizations and environments you’re targeting
4️⃣ Your unique strengths
Example, based on my experience:
💡 ‘I am a nonprofit executive and strategic leader with deep expertise in education, science, and association management. I have led mission-driven organizations, focusing on operational transformation, leadership development, and content strategy. I thrive in collaborative, growth-oriented environments where I can build high-performing teams to achieve programmatic goals and financial stability.’
This makes it easy for others to see where you fit and how you add value.
Step 3: Craft a Strong LinkedIn Headline
The most critical social networking site for job searches is LinkedIn. Your LinkedIn headline should not just be a job title, it should reflect your positioning statement. It’s the first thing people see, so make it clear, searchable, and compelling. Here are examples:
🚀 Before: “Executive Director” → After: “Strategic nonprofit leader | Transforming organizations through leadership & operational excellence”
🚀 Before: “Consultant” → After: “Helping scientific and education organizations strengthen strategy & impact”
A strong headline ensures your profile stands out when recruiters or connections browse LinkedIn.
Step 4: Research Companies & Track Your Network
Now, start gathering information:
🔹 LinkedIn, Indeed and other job boards – Identify employees in your target roles.
🔹 Company websites – Look for hiring trends and team structures.
🔹 ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer – For nonprofit financial insights.
If you want to explore this during a live, virtual session on March 25, 2025 register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/QT4YV4eRSHivwmzcRmM-BA
