A dedication to continuous learning helps nonprofit professionals ensure that they are prepared for disruption in an ever-changing world. In the past, this might have meant seeking out formal learning opportunities like degree programs, but microcredentials have now become an indispensable way for people to expand their knowledge on a subject in a more flexible, cost-effective way.
Professionals, however, must be careful when selecting which microcredential they will pursue. With so many options available, it’s critical to select and dedicate themselves to a program that will set them up for both short- and long-term success in the nonprofit field.
To help nonprofit professionals cultivate the right capabilities, 13 Forbes Nonprofit Council members each share one microcredential they should consider getting and the positive impact it can have on their skills.
Members pictured from left to right.
Photos courtesy of the individual members.1. Communication
The stories we tell about our impact matter. Communication—no matter what role you are in at a nonprofit—is the lifeblood of sharing your impact, raising money and being effective. The University of North Alabama offers a four-part course in nonprofit communication studies that not only covers the basics of sharing your mission and its meaning, but also dives deep into intercultural communication. - Erin Mote, InnovateEDU
2. Multiculturalism
Microcredentials related to multiculturalism and social justice allow nonprofit professionals to study how to effectively communicate with individuals of differing worldviews. This knowledge can help them shape their community for the better by ultimately improving their ability to be more effective leaders in their communities. - Michael Horowitz, TCS Education System
Forbes Nonprofit Council is an invitation-only organization for chief executives in successful nonprofit organizations. Do I qualify?
3. Nonprofit Management
One microcredential that nonprofit professionals should consider acquiring is a certification in nonprofit management. This credential demonstrates expertise in key areas such as fundraising, financial management and leadership. It can also help professionals advance their careers and improve their effectiveness in their roles. - Leonard Freeman, Oregon Tilth
4. Life Coaching
In nonprofit work, you often find people who need help finding their purpose. I find that having a Life Coaching certificate helps me to better serve my staff and program participants. - Kimberly Lewis, Goodwill Industries of East Texas, Inc.
5. Negotiation
It would be extremely helpful for nonprofit professionals to have some proficiency in communication skills in general, especially in the art of negotiation. Managing an operating team of nonprofit professionals, working with a board of directors on resource allocations or soliciting individual major gifts all involve negotiation. Mastery in negotiation is a valuable skill for your toolbox. - Victoria Burkhart, The More Than Giving Company
6. Presenting
I've learned across the years that presentation skills are a must. We need to better understand how to communicate in a clear and concise way, and it doesn't matter who your audience is. If you get bored by your own presentations, then it means that whoever is hearing you—donors, beneficiaries, the community as a whole—are bored as well. - Pablo Listingart, ComIT
7. Change Management
There are numerous great microcredentials in the market focused on change management. The world is changing so rapidly around us that all leaders need tools to help them remain agile as they navigate our increasingly complex and uncertain worlds and gain buy-in from staff and other stakeholders. - Scott Dolan, Excelsior College
8. Influencer Marketing
Influencer marketing is arguably the most effective advertising medium today. Nonprofits have always looked to celebrity endorsements and ambassadors for amplifying their mission. With the explosion of the creator economy, there has never been a better time to source, secure and empower influencer partners to help with promoting and generating calls to action for your mission. - Nick Lynch, Collidescope IO, Inc.
9. Digital Fundraising
Nonprofit professionals should consider a digital fundraising microcredential. Digital fundraising is becoming increasingly important for nonprofits as more donors turn to online platforms to make donations. Acquiring this microcredential can help one understand the basics of online fundraising, including how to set up donation pages, create campaigns and use social media to reach potential donors. - Kenneth Deans, Health Sciences South Carolina
10. Fundraising Management
Gaining a microcredential in fundraising management will offer additional training in finances and planning and increase leadership skills to help navigate landscapes of shifting technology and demographics. Since fundraising is the cornerstone of financial stability for nonprofits, this microcredential should be considered to contribute to the overall success of an organization. - Dan Mantz, Robotics Education & Competition (REC) Foundation
11. Information And Data Systems Literacy
Sourcing professional nonprofit leaders with recent information and data systems literacy credentials can play a decisive role in shaping a nonprofit organization's ability to accomplish a strategic plan in the 21st century. Data collection, protection and analysis literacy will also position an organization at the front of the line in grant writing, risk management and fundraising success. - Tony Siebers, Parent Projects
12. Data Analytics
I recommend the Google Data Analytics certificate program. Most organizations collect and store a treasury of information that can be used to solve problems and improve decisions. The training provides a broad overview of analysis approaches for those without a background in the field. As a leader, I found the emphasis on data storytelling using appropriate visualizations quite enlightening. - Christopher Washington, Franklin University
13. Project Management Foundations
Beta Gamma Sigma utilizes LinkedIn Learning for the continuous professional development of our team. One of their certification courses that has been most impactful is called “Project Management Foundations.” With small teams and limited budgets, it behooves nonprofits to manage projects at the highest level of efficiency. This foundational certification provides the knowledge base for our team to do so. - Christina Allrich, Beta Gamma Sigma
