In a market where competition for qualified professionals is fierce, many of our non-profit clients are asking us: “How can we attract and retain great people when we can’t compete on salary and perks?” It’s a valid concern. Industries such as technology, financial services and consulting often have the financial bandwidth to offer high salaries, generous bonus structures and a long list of lifestyle benefits. For mission-driven organisations working with tighter resources, it can feel like a difficult race to run. But a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP) isn’t built on budget alone. An EVP is fundamentally about meaning. The reasons people feel proud to work at your organisation. The most effective EVPs we see are not necessarily flashy, but they are clear, consistent and deeply connected to the values and culture of the organisation. When well-crafted and confidently communicated, non-profits can not only compete, but excel, when it comes to attracting and retaining capable, aligned professionals who are motivated by more than just salary. 

If you’ve found yourself thinking, “I hate my job,” lately, you might be unsure about what’s behind it, or what to do next. Maybe it’s creeping Sunday night dread. Maybe your role hasn’t evolved, but your priorities have. Or maybe the work’s become repetitive, or the culture has shifted in a way that doesn’t align with you. Whatever the reason, something just isn’t sitting right—and that’s worth paying attention to. We get it. As recruiters, we hear this all the time from people who are feeling unsettled and unsure of their next step. But before you hand in your resignation or start firing off job applications, it’s worth taking a pause and looking at what’s really causing that feeling. Here’s what we’d recommend before making any big decisions: