Competing for Talent

Lesson 1: Systematize vacancy planning

The market for major gift officer talent is more competitive than ever before. Colleges and universities must improve their recruiting efforts if they are going to successfully attract high-quality fundraisers.

Demand for fundraisers has exceeded pre-recession levels. Higher education institutions are relying on major gifts to replace other sources of revenue that have been cut or reduced. Simultaneously, other nonprofits are expanding into the major gifts fundraising space and competing with universities for fundraisers. This environment has created a seller’s market in which highly qualified gift officers can choose between an abundance of employment opportunities.

Colleges and universities typically prefer experienced fundraisers, but these individuals are the most difficult and expensive to recruit. Institutions can side-step the “salary arms race” by proactively identifying strong candidates, customizing their approach based on institutional need, and accelerating gift officers’ transitions into the organization.