Some careers are open to all: read up on them in the TARGETjobs magazine

Charity/not-for-profit

Applications & interviews for this sector

Finding a job in the charity and not-for-profit sector

Creative job-hunting is the key to landing a graduate job in the charity and not-for-profit sector. Do your research, make contacts and above all, be flexible so you can meet organisations' requirements.

Prepare for a successful job-hunt

Preparation should be the first step in your job search. It’s essential to research employers so you can send targeted applications to the organisations that interest you.

Showcase your skills in applications

Once you’ve matched your skills to a position, it’s time to apply. Forms of application vary greatly across the public sector, so make sure you apply using the preferred format.

Perfect interview preparation

Interviews are like icebergs: there’s a lot more to them than meets the eye. The little bit on top is what happens in the room, while the big bit down below is the solid preparation that you have done before the interview. If you don’t do your preparation, you won’t have a solid base, and you might find yourself tipped headfirst into the freezing water of unemployment!

Show off your skills

Certain skills are valued in a public service environment. We asked four recruiters to explain why these abilities are so valuable – and how you can demonstrate them.

The online form guide

For almost every graduate job or internship you have the same first hurdle to overcome – the online application form. While they make the job-hunting process far smoother for both you and employers, there are still pitfalls you need to watch out for.

Top tips for applications and interview success

Found a charity job you like the look of? Follow our advice to help make sure you're making the most of yourself on your application form and at interview.

An introduction to... assessment centres

All organisations design their own assessment centres but many of them will contain similar elements. These can include group exercises, a presentation, a series of aptitude tests or a case study linked to the job function that you have applied for.

Create the perfect cover letter

A carefully-crafted covering letter can demonstrate your commitment to the job, primary motivation in applying and sparkling personality all in one letter - and make all the difference to a recruiter's decision to ask you in for interview.

The 6-step guide to perfecting your CV

A good CV is essential in getting the job you want, so take the time to get it right: focus on your message, make the best use of your space and stand out from the crowd for all the right reasons.