What do non-profit professionals do everyday?

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work in a non-profit organisation? Have you ever asked what non-profit professionals do everyday?

The word “non-profit” conjures up many images, which I believe include “candy floss”, “free hugs” and “care bears”. To some, it may also imply “inefficient” and “less stressful”. I would term this “The myths of working in a non-profit organisation”.

The truth is (coming from 10 years of corporate experience), a non-profit organisation is equally as focussed on objectives and goals, just different from the goal of making profits and maximising shareholder value. With limited resources, we are challenged to operate as lean as possible, while maximising the returns. As we receive public and government funding, we are held to a high level of accountability on how we manage the dollar. For each dollar, we think thrice before we spend it. For every dollar, we think how we can stretch it three times or more!

“As we receive public and government funding, we are held to a high level of accountability on how we manage the dollar. For each dollar, we think thrice before we spend it. For every dollar, we think how we can stretch it three times or more!”

It is with this intent that Darlene and I went to Dreamforce* in San Francisco. Some may look and question this investment; even I had my doubts before I went there. However, during the conference, I understood why. In January this year, Halogen moved our CRM (customer relationship management) onto Salesforce. We saw what was possible with Salesforce, learnt from industry thought leaders and connected with other non-profit organisations globally.

Coming back, we are fired up to strategise for 2012-2013, streamline Halogen’s work processes, redefine our reporting dashboards to our board members and more. By being there, we also had fruitful discussions with Salesforce Foundation, and we are in the midst of finalising partnership initiatives for a roll out in Singapore.

This is an exciting time to be alive. Despite the economic and social challenges that surround us, never before have there been technologies like what we possess now. With one click, we can share updated and valuable information across the organisation. With one click, we can collaborate with people across the globe for social good. With one click, we have the potential to influence millions.

What are you dreaming of? What are you waiting for?