Let’s be honest: Working in the nonprofit world is not for the faint of heart. You’re juggling finite resources, less competitive salaries and benefits, sky-high expectations, and a mission so important it makes you want to cry into your coffee. And somehow, it’s still the most rewarding job on the planet. But what’s the secret to making it work? A strong team. Not just any team, but a dynamic, mission-driven group of superstars who can weather the storms, celebrate the wins, and maybe even laugh along the way.
To build, manage, and retain a nonprofit team, consider these three steps.
Step 1: Build a Team People Want to Join
When it comes to nonprofits, attracting talent isn’t just about flashy job descriptions or promises of kombucha on tap. (Though not a bad idea!) It’s about creating a team culture that screams, “We’re doing something amazing here, and you want to be a part of it.”
Start with Purpose
People don’t join nonprofits for the salary (shocking, I know). They join because they are crazy about the mission. Make sure every role is tied directly to your organization’s “why.” If your social media manager knows they’re not just posting cute graphics, but posts that are actually driving donations that fund life-changing programs, they’ll feel more invested.
Infuse Values into Everything
Your values should be more than just a poster in the lobby or words on your website. They should guide hiring decisions, team meetings, and how you show up in the world. When your team knows what you stand for and have the behaviors that back it up, it’s easier for them to stand together.
Create a Sense of Belonging
No one wants to feel like the odd person out. Build an inclusive environment where every voice matters. Diverse perspectives and experience enhance creativity, problem solving, and build cohesive teams. Host regular check-ins, celebrate differences, and make sure your team’s inclusion is its superpower, not an afterthought.
Step 2: Manage with Vision and Empathy
Nonprofits aren’t like corporations. (If they were, we’d have pool tables and fewer existential crises.) Managing a nonprofit team requires a blend of big-picture vision and small-picture empathy.
Be a Coach, Not a Dictator
Think less “manager” and more “coach.” Your job is to empower your team to do their best work, not micromanage their every move. Ask coaching questions such as, “What support do you need to make this happen?” or “What would success look like to you?” Then step back and let your people shine.
Catch Problems Early
If your team is starting to crack under the pressure, you’ll see the warning signs: missed deadlines, terse emails, or sudden silences in meetings. Address issues head-on with empathy. (Hint: This is not the time for “Why didn’t you do this?” but rather a “How can I help?” vibe.)
Feedback Is Your Friend
No one likes giving or receiving feedback, but it’s the secret sauce of a strong team. This isn’t a confrontation; it’s an opportunity to grow. Focus on the work, not the person. Instead of “You let me down,” say, “The missed deadline led to XYZ. Let’s figure out how to avoid that next time.”
Step 3: Retain Your Dream Team
Building and managing a great team is only half the battle. Keeping them around? That’s the challenge and where the magic happens.
Offer Meaningful Opportunities for Growth
Nobody wants to feel stuck in a rut. Give your team chances to learn and to grow, whether it’s through mentorship programs, coaching opportunities, professional development workshops, or leadership coaching. Ensure this ties back to your mission.
Celebrate Wins – Big and Small
Secure a huge grant? Land a new partnership? Finally master the copier? Celebrate it! Recognition doesn’t have to be fancy; it just has to be authentic. A heartfelt “thank you” and why what was done was so impactful goes a long way, and when in doubt, there’s always coffee and donuts. Sometimes, the best way to thank someone is with treats.
Build a Values-Driven Culture
At the end of the day, people stay where they feel aligned: Mission + Values = Culture. If your team feels connected to your mission, trusted in their roles, and valued as humans, they’ll not only stick around but also thrive.
Building, managing, and retaining a nonprofit team isn’t always easy, but it is worth it. With the right mix of purpose, vision, and a sprinkle of humor, you can create a team that’s not just effective but dreamy.
Now go out there and lead like the superstar nonprofit leader you are! If you are looking for a little support for yourself – Let’s Talk.