How does a fundraiser find more meaningful work?

The question I often want to ask any fundraiser who explains to me that they are frustrated and disappointed in their work is whether they know how to search out and identify opportunities that will ensure them an opportunity for meaningful work. Instead of discerning whether a new job will offer them the chance to shine in meaningful ways, I see far too many fundraisers gravitating toward alluring mission statements and charismatic bosses who ultimately let them down. My guest today on The Fundraising Talent Podcast is Scott Perry who has made it his business to help his clients improve these types of discernment skills. Scott wants to ensure that, rather doing work fraught with disappointment and burnout, all of us have the opportunity to flourish and thrive in our workplaces. 

Scott has recognized that many of us, regardless of the professional path we have taken, were told deceptive tales of how it all works. Most of these tales originated at the beginning of the twentieth century when efficiency, predictability, and control were all that mattered. Instead of creating opportunities for employees to be creative and curious and to make genuine human connections, many of our workplaces remain steeped in industrial era virtues that leave us feeling like we are merely parts of a machine designed sap every last ounce of our value.

As always, we are especially grateful to our friends at CueBack for sponsoring The Fundraising Talent Podcast. And, if you’d like to download Responsive’s latest edition of Carefully & Critically, just click here.

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