Opportunity or stressor?

Like many people working in nonprofits, Nikki describes herself as resourceful, appreciating the opportunity to go beyond her job description. However, she adds, “Putting on a professional veneer to manage chaotic situations was challenging.” She usually had to improvise in the moment and afterwards evaluate how it could be done better.

Of Carolyn’s experience of spontaneously managing volunteers, she says, “I was completely floored but because I persevered and made do, it was a valuable opportunity.”

Laura says, “I wouldn’t likely have had the experience elsewhere of having an organization put the same degree of trust in an entry-level person. My experience is also what got me into grad school – I had experience managing tasks that most people my age didn’t have.”

Nikki adds that going above and beyond in a contract position is “an awesome way to prove yourself as an employee and be in the running for a permanent position.” Kumar agrees. “Leaders are people who step up and do what needs to be done. Any organization wants to promote people who go above and beyond like this.”