While grant writing and budgeting are important skills to have in your toolbox, not-for-profit leaders require more than just financial know-how. In the not-for-profit sector, where fundraising is the engine of mission success and limited resources demand leaders who can do more with less, the ability to build relationships is a key differentiator.

Soft skills, often dismissed as buzzwords, help build strong relationships with donors and stakeholders in the not-for-profit sector. These skills aren’t just nice-to-haves but practical tools that can significantly enhance your work.

This article delves into the key soft skills for not-for-profit leaders and how organizations can foster these skills in future leaders through continuous development.

Listening

Listening is not just a soft skill; it's a superpower for not-for-profit leaders. By mastering this skill, you can better understand your community's and your team’s needs and concerns. This understanding fuels your communication, allowing you to craft messages that truly resonate. Active listening also fosters empathy, trust and collaboration — all essential for harnessing diverse perspectives and creativity.

For instance, a leader who listens to staff struggles and responds by offering flexible work arrangements creates a supportive environment, boosting morale. Likewise, listening to donors’ values and needs leads to more curated giving opportunities that foster increased value and comfort. This empathetic approach empowers leaders to connect authentically and lead with compassion and impact.

Storytelling

A strong not-for-profit leader relies on powerful communication to champion their cause. Strong verbal and written communication can inspire action and collaboration. Imagine a leader weaving compelling stories and data into a fundraising campaign, effectively illustrating the impact of recent projects. Storytelling makes the organization's mission and vision relatable, fostering a deeper connection with stakeholders, donors, volunteers and beneficiaries. In a crowded not-for-profit sector, unique and engaging stories can differentiate the organization from others, highlighting its unique approach, impact and vision.

Adaptability

Adaptability is a must in the not-for-profit sector, where changing circumstances and limited resources are common. Leaders must be flexible and able to pivot quickly in response to different challenges and conditions. For example, during a sudden funding shortfall, a not-for-profit leader who adapts by exploring alternative revenue streams, such as virtual fundraising events, can maintain the organization's financial stability and continue delivering services without interruption.

Time Management

Just because a not-for-profit leader wears multiple hats, it doesn’t mean they should work round the clock. Time management allows you to prioritize tasks, manage projects and meet deadlines. Effective scheduling allows strategic allocation of time and resources. For example, by prioritizing grant application deadlines and key fundraising events, a not-for-profit leader can secure the funding needed to support the organization’s mission. 

Good time management also prevents staff and volunteer burnout by creating a balanced workload and realistic timelines, leading to a healthier, more impactful team.

Teamwork

Teamwork isn't just a cliché — it's a core competency. Effective leaders foster a collaborative culture, embracing and utilizing their team's unique and diverse strengths. Plus, collaboration and relationship building extend beyond your own team. Leaders need to leverage their network and navigate external partnerships to help the organization succeed. By openly communicating, clarifying goals and acknowledging contributions, leaders can turn a team into a powerful force for good.

Conflict Resolution

The ability to mediate and resolve conflicts is critical for maintaining a positive and productive work environment. Not-for-profit leaders often deal with people from different walks of life and conflicts can arise from clashing viewpoints and interests. For example, a leader who skillfully mediates a disagreement between board members about strategic priorities by facilitating open dialogue and finding common ground can prevent the conflict from escalating, ensuring that the organization stays focused on its mission and goals.

Developing Soft Skills

Not-for-profit organizations have a golden opportunity to cultivate future leaders from within. By investing in continuous development, they can equip their employees with the essential soft skills needed to effectively champion the organization's mission.

Here are some impactful strategies:

• Interactive Learning: Regularly offer workshops and seminars focused on soft skills, such as communication, conflict resolution and teamwork.  Bring in external experts through their partnerships or board or utilize internal leaders to provide diverse perspectives and hands-on experience.
• Mentorship Programs: Pair experienced leaders or board members with high-potential staff. Mentors can offer guidance, share valuable experiences, and provide feedback on areas like leadership and problem-solving, fostering the personal and professional growth of mentees.  Research indicates that adults learn through experiences, and mentoring can help connect the dots between the experience and the lesson.
• Regular Feedback: Implement regular feedback and evaluation processes to provide individual coaching for your team. This information will also help inform training needs and initiatives.
• Flexible Learning Options: Provide access to online courses and webinars, allowing employees to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. This ensures accessibility for all staff members.
• Book Clubs: Create book clubs or discussion groups focused on professional development books, articles or case studies to foster a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing.

These are just a few examples. By integrating a variety of training methods, not-for-profits can build a pipeline of future leaders with the necessary skills to navigate complex challenges and drive positive impact. 

Next Steps

Don't let soft skills be the missing piece in your organization's success story. Connect with us today to learn how CBIZ can help your not-for-profit build a strong team of effective leaders.

Copyright © 2024, CBIZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced without the express written consent of CBIZ. This publication is distributed with the understanding that CBIZ is not rendering legal, accounting or other professional advice. The reader is advised to contact a tax professional prior to taking any action based upon this information. CBIZ assumes no liability whatsoever in connection with the use of this information and assumes no obligation to inform the reader of any changes in tax laws or other factors that could affect the information contained herein.

CBIZ MHM is the brand name for CBIZ MHM, LLC, a national professional services company providing tax, financial advisory and consulting services to individuals, tax-exempt organizations and a wide range of publicly traded and privately held companies. CBIZ MHM, LLC is a fully owned subsidiary of CBIZ, Inc. (NYSE: CBZ).