Thanks For the Career Advice, ChatGPT

I Now Have Some Confidence in My Abilities

I’m currently taking a course in using AI for digital storytelling in nonprofit organizations. I’m also having a blast. It’s incredible how much GenAI can help you get done. I also have found uses for it that go outside nonprofit operations. Here’s my favorite one.

I’ve been on the job hunt for a little while. Currently, I’m pursuing a certificate in fundraising at NYU. Since my goal is the find an entry-level position in nonprofit development in Manhattan, my qualifications have been heavily on my mind. So, rather than ask people in my network, which I have to some degree of success, I decided to ask the internet itself. Here’s what I did.

First, I took the text of my resume and put it in a ChatGPT promt. They I asked it, “Hi, ChatGPT. Can you list 10 jobs in the nonprofit sector that my resume is a good fit for.” It could definitely tell I was looking for entry-level positions without instruction. If the salutation sounds weird, I doubt it is required.

Given that I’m the type who has a tendency to show some skepticism, I decided to follow up. I ask ChatGPT, “That’s great but am I underqualified for any of these?” You need to teach ChatGPT your preferences. It’s kind of like how Netflix feeds you recommendations based on what you have already told it through your viewing habits and preferences. Moving Forward, here’s what ChatGPT told me:

“Based on the information provided in your resume, you appear to have relevant experience and skills for entry-level roles in the nonprofit sector, particularly in fundraising, development, and communications. Your involvement in nonprofit organizations and completion of the Fundraising Certificate Program at NYU demonstrate a commitment to building the necessary knowledge and skills for these roles.

However, whether you are perceived as underqualified depends on the specific requirements of the positions you are applying for and the expectations of potential employers. Here are a few considerations:

1. Entry-Level Positions: If you are targeting entry-level positions, your background and skills seem appropriate. Employers often understand that candidates may not have extensive experience, especially for entry-level roles.
2. Relevant Skills: Your proficiency in CRM, Google Docs, Google Analytics, Salesforce, and other tools commonly used in the nonprofit sector is a strong point. These technical skills are highly valuable in many nonprofit roles.
3. Education: Your ongoing education in the Fundraising Certificate Program and your Bachelor’s degree in Dance and Theatre with a Minor in Communications provide a foundation for understanding both the creative and strategic aspects of nonprofit work.
4. Demonstrated Experience: Your experience in volunteer coordination, promotional research, and administrative support, as well as your specific accomplishments in your previous roles, contribute positively to your qualifications.

To strengthen your application, consider tailoring your resume and cover letter for each position, highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the specific job requirements. Additionally, if you have gained additional skills or experiences since the last update of your resume, be sure to include them.

Networking can also be beneficial in the nonprofit sector. Attend industry events, connect with professionals in your field of interest, and seek informational interviews to learn more about the sector and potential opportunities.

Overall, while gaining more experience is always beneficial, your current qualifications position you well for entry-level positions in the nonprofit sector.”

Wow! Just wow. I needed this. When I speak to a coach, friend or past connection, I get a sense that they are over-valuing my work. Dumping it into a ChatGPT prompt adds an extra layer of vetting. The internet doesn’t lie. Just the people who sometimes post on it.