By Linda Lysakowski, ACFRE
CAPITAL VENTURE CEO/President
Originally published in AFP's "Advancing Philanthropy" magazine
How to Assess an Organization's Philanthropic Culture
Sometimes, the good news is you got the job; the bad news is you got the job. Many development officers, especially after a grueling
job search, are so delighted to get an offer, they say yes without thinking and then find themselves, within a few months or even a
few weeks, wondering why they took the job.
Before accepting a position, you should think about, and ask, some critical questions
about the philanthropic culture of the organization making the offer. How can
you determine the culture of an organization? A good place to start is by researching
the organization's website and printed publications. If you know someone who works
for this organization, serves on its board, has received services from the organization
or volunteers there, have a heart-to-heart talk with these people as well. During
the interview ask questions and observe the surroundings. Read more
