CSR Fundraiser
About the Organization: Utkarsh Global Foundation (formerly known as Utkarsh Star Mitra Mandal) is a nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to promoting societal welfare in collaboration with government bodies. Our work spans diverse areas, including environmental protection, animal welfare, women's education and empowerment, social justice, and disaster preparedness. Our mission is to create a better world for all living beings and the environment.
Job Title: CSR Fundraiser
Job Summary: The CSR Fundraiser will spearhead the organization’s efforts to secure funding through strategic partnerships with corporate entities and other stakeholders. This role demands a proactive professional with strong networking capabilities and a comprehensive understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices and trends.
Key Responsibilities: • Develop and Implement Fundraising Strategies • Design and execute effective fundraising plans to attract and retain corporate donors and sponsors. • Build and Maintain Relationships • Foster strong relationships with existing and prospective corporate partners, including decision-makers and influencers. • Proposal Writing • Prepare and present persuasive proposals to secure funding and align corporate interests with organizational goals. • Event Management • Plan and oversee fundraising events and campaigns in collaboration with marketing and events teams. • Reporting and Monitoring • Track fundraising progress, donor engagement, and campaign performance, providing regular reports to senior management. • Market Research • Stay updated on CSR trends, emerging opportunities, and identify potential funding sources.
• Internal Collaboration • Work with communications and program teams to ensure alignment of fundraising efforts with organizational objectives.
Qualifications: Education: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field. • Advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management or fundraising are preferred. Experience: • Minimum of 3–5 years in a leadership role within an NGO or similar organization. Skills: • Exceptional communication and presentation skills. • Strong networking and relationship-building expertise. • Proficiency in proposal writing and grant management. • Hands-on experience with CRM software and fundraising tools. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Benefits: • Competitive salary and benefits package. • A chance to make a significant impact in the community. • Supportive and collaborative workplace culture. • Opportunities for professional development and growth.
Join Utkarsh Global Foundation and become a catalyst for positive change in society. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.
Prepare for real-time interview for : CSR Fundraiser with these targeted questions & answers to showcase your skills and experience in first attempt, with 100% confidence.
Question:
How do you approach a situation where key stakeholders have conflicting priorities or goals for a project?
Answer:
When stakeholders have conflicting priorities, I first facilitate a discussion to clarify each stakeholder’s goals and expectations. I focus on understanding the broader business objectives and how each priority fits into the bigger picture. I help stakeholders recognize the trade-offs involved with each option and encourage collaboration to find a compromise that aligns with the project’s overall goals. By focusing on transparent communication and fostering a collaborative mindset, I help align stakeholders and move forward with a unified plan.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult client. How did you maintain a positive working relationship?
Answer:
In one project, the client was frequently changing requirements, which caused disruptions. I took the time to listen to their concerns and worked to understand the root cause of the changes. I scheduled regular check-ins to provide updates and clarify expectations, which helped manage their concerns proactively. By setting clear boundaries and maintaining open communication, I was able to address their needs without jeopardizing the project timeline. This approach strengthened our working relationship and ultimately led to a successful outcome.
Question:
How do you ensure your team remains productive and focused during long-term projects?
Answer:
For long-term projects, I set clear milestones and break the project down into smaller, manageable tasks. This helps the team focus on short-term goals and maintain a sense of progress. I also celebrate small wins along the way to keep morale high. Regular check-ins and open communication help address any concerns or bottlenecks early. By keeping the team engaged with achievable milestones and providing consistent support, I ensure productivity remains high throughout the duration of the project.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to quickly pivot a project due to unforeseen challenges. How did you manage it?
Answer:
In one project, we encountered a major technical issue that disrupted our original plan. I quickly gathered the team to assess the situation and identify alternative solutions. We re-prioritized tasks and adjusted the project timeline to accommodate the necessary changes. I communicated with stakeholders to manage expectations and ensured the team remained focused on the new objectives. By staying calm and adapting our approach, we were able to pivot successfully and deliver the project with minimal delays.
Question:
How do you manage stress and maintain performance during high-pressure situations?
Answer:
In high-pressure situations, I stay organized by prioritizing tasks and breaking them into smaller, actionable steps. This helps me focus on immediate priorities without feeling overwhelmed. I also maintain open communication with the team and stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned. Taking short breaks and managing my time effectively helps me stay refreshed and maintain productivity. By staying focused and keeping a clear plan in mind, I manage stress and continue to perform well under pressure.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to overcome resistance to change within a team. How did you manage it?
Answer:
When implementing a new software tool in a previous project, I encountered resistance from team members who were comfortable with the old process. I addressed their concerns by organizing a series of training sessions to demonstrate how the new tool would improve their workflows. I also encouraged them to share feedback and suggestions during the transition. By involving the team in the process and offering support, I was able to overcome resistance and ensure a smooth adoption of the new tool.
Question:
How do you ensure that project deliverables meet both the client’s expectations and the company’s quality standards?
Answer:
To ensure deliverables meet both client expectations and quality standards, I begin by establishing clear requirements and deliverables at the outset of the project. I maintain close communication with the client throughout the project to ensure alignment and address any changes early. Internally, I set up regular quality checks and reviews to ensure that the team adheres to company standards. By maintaining these practices, I ensure that deliverables are on time, meet client needs, and are of the highest quality.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project across different geographic locations or time zones. How did you ensure collaboration?
Answer:
In a global project involving teams in different time zones, I established clear communication protocols and tools to ensure collaboration. We used project management software to keep everyone updated asynchronously and scheduled meetings at times that overlapped for all teams. I made sure to document decisions and share meeting notes to keep everyone informed, regardless of time zone. By fostering transparency and leveraging technology, I ensured smooth collaboration and alignment across all locations.
Question:
How do you handle a situation where a project is falling behind schedule?
Answer:
When a project falls behind schedule, I first assess the root cause of the delay by reviewing the progress and identifying any bottlenecks. I then prioritize critical tasks and redistribute resources to address the most urgent issues. I communicate with stakeholders to reset expectations and adjust the timeline if necessary. I also encourage the team to focus on efficiency while maintaining quality. By addressing the delay early and making necessary adjustments, I work to bring the project back on track.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to implement a new process that improved team efficiency. What steps did you take?
Answer:
In a previous role, I identified inefficiencies in our project handoff process between departments. I introduced a standardized template that included key deliverables, deadlines, and responsibilities to ensure smoother transitions. I trained the team on the new process and gathered feedback to refine it. The result was a significant reduction in miscommunication and delays, improving overall efficiency. By implementing a clear process and ensuring team buy-in, we were able to streamline workflows and improve productivity.
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with a difficult or demanding customer.
Answer: "I encountered a customer who was upset about a delayed order. I actively listened to their concerns, empathized with their frustration, and explained the reason for the delay. I then offered a solution to expedite the order and provided regular updates to keep them informed. Ultimately, my proactive communication and problem-solving approach helped resolve the situation and maintain a positive customer relationship."
Question: How do you approach problem-solving when faced with a complex issue?
Answer: "I break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components. I gather relevant information, analyze potential causes, and consider various solutions. I also consult with colleagues or experts when necessary. I believe in a structured and analytical approach to problem-solving, while also being open to creative and innovative solutions."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a new or unfamiliar situation.
Answer: "I was assigned to a project that required me to learn a new software program quickly. I utilized online tutorials, sought guidance from colleagues with expertise, and dedicated extra time to practice and master the program. My adaptability and willingness to learn enabled me to contribute effectively to the project."
Question: How do you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple competing deadlines?
Answer: "I use a combination of prioritization techniques, such as the Eisenhower Matrix (urgent/important) and the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule). I consider deadlines, the impact of each task, and any dependencies. I also communicate with stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities and manage expectations."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to work effectively under pressure.
Answer: "We were preparing for a major product launch when a critical issue arose. I remained calm under pressure, quickly assessed the situation, and collaborated with the team to develop a solution. We worked efficiently and effectively to resolve the issue and successfully launch the product on time."
Question: How do you stay informed about industry trends and new developments in your field?
Answer: "I stay current by reading industry publications, attending conferences and webinars, and following thought leaders and experts on social media. I also participate in online forums and communities to engage in discussions and learn from others in my field."
Question: What are your strengths and weaknesses as they relate to this specific role?
Answer: (Tailor your response to the specific requirements of the role.)
"One of my key strengths for this role is my ability to [mention a relevant strength and provide a specific example]. I'm also a strong [mention another relevant strength] and enjoy [mention a related skill or task].
An area I'm working to improve is [mention a weakness that is not critical for the role and explain how you are addressing it]. I believe my strengths align well with the requirements of this position, and I'm committed to continuous improvement."
Question: Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision that impacted others.
Answer: "In a previous role, I had to make the difficult decision to restructure a team, which involved reassigning roles and responsibilities. I carefully considered the impact on each team member, communicated the rationale transparently, and provided support during the transition. While the decision was challenging, it ultimately led to improved team efficiency and alignment with company goals."
Question: How do you handle working with colleagues who have different working styles or personalities?
Answer: "I appreciate the diversity of working styles and personalities, and I see it as an opportunity to learn and collaborate effectively. I adapt my communication style to suit different individuals, actively listen to understand their perspectives, and focus on finding common ground to achieve shared goals."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to take a calculated risk in your work.
Answer: "I proposed a new marketing campaign that involved a different approach and a larger budget than usual. I presented a thorough analysis of the potential risks and rewards, and I confidently advocated for the campaign. The risk paid off, and the campaign exceeded expectations, resulting in significant growth in customer engagement and sales."
Question: How do you approach learning from your mistakes or setbacks?
Answer: "I view mistakes and setbacks as valuable learning opportunities. I reflect on what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and adjust my approach accordingly. I also seek feedback from others to gain different perspectives and avoid repeating the same mistakes."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to work on a project with a diverse team.
Answer: "I collaborated on a project with a team from various cultural backgrounds and with different areas of expertise. I embraced the diversity of perspectives, facilitated open communication, and leveraged each team member's strengths to achieve a successful outcome. The experience broadened my understanding of different cultures and approaches to problem-solving."
Question: How do you stay motivated when facing challenges or obstacles?
Answer: "I focus on the bigger picture, break down challenges into smaller steps, and celebrate small wins along the way. I also draw inspiration from mentors and colleagues, and I remind myself of my past successes to maintain a positive attitude and persevere through difficulties."
Question: What are your preferred methods for receiving feedback on your performance?
Answer: "I appreciate receiving feedback through various channels, including regular one-on-one meetings with my supervisor, formal performance reviews, and informal feedback from colleagues. I value constructive criticism and specific examples that help me understand areas for improvement and grow professionally."
Question:
How do you handle a situation where your team is not meeting performance expectations?
Answer:
When my team is not meeting performance expectations, I start by analyzing the root cause. I hold one-on-one meetings to understand any challenges they’re facing, whether it’s unclear objectives, lack of resources, or personal issues. I then work collaboratively with the team to set clear, measurable performance goals and provide additional support or training if necessary. I also regularly monitor progress and offer constructive feedback to ensure improvements. By fostering a supportive environment and addressing issues head-on, I help the team get back on track and meet expectations.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you had to learn a new skill quickly to meet project requirements?
Answer:
During a project, I was asked to implement a new software tool that I had never used before. To meet the requirements, I quickly enrolled in online tutorials and spent extra hours outside of work learning the tool. I also reached out to colleagues who had experience with it for additional tips and guidance. Within a few days, I was proficient enough to successfully integrate the tool into the project, and we were able to meet the deadline without any disruptions. This experience reinforced my ability to learn new skills under pressure.
Question:
How do you ensure effective communication when managing a remote or distributed team?
Answer:
To ensure effective communication in a remote team, I establish clear guidelines on communication channels and frequency. We use collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and project management software to keep everyone aligned. I schedule regular video meetings for updates and discussions, making sure everyone has a chance to share their progress and concerns. I also encourage transparency and over-communication to avoid misunderstandings. By maintaining consistent communication and fostering a collaborative environment, I ensure that the team remains connected and productive.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a budget cut while still delivering a project successfully.
Answer:
In one project, we faced a significant budget cut midway through. I immediately reassessed the project plan and identified areas where we could reduce costs without compromising the final deliverables. This included cutting non-essential features, negotiating with vendors for better rates, and reallocating internal resources to avoid additional expenses. I communicated the changes with the stakeholders and adjusted timelines accordingly. By prioritizing the most critical elements and being resourceful, we were able to deliver the project successfully, despite the reduced budget.
Question:
How do you approach giving feedback to a team member who is not receptive to criticism?
Answer:
When giving feedback to someone who isn’t receptive to criticism, I focus on delivering it in a constructive and empathetic way. I start by acknowledging their strengths and contributions before addressing the areas for improvement. I ensure the feedback is specific, actionable, and focused on behavior, not personality. I also ask for their perspective, which helps create an open dialogue. By fostering a supportive environment and offering solutions rather than just criticism, I aim to make the feedback more acceptable and productive.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to balance short-term goals with long-term objectives. How did you manage it?
Answer:
In a previous role, I had to balance short-term client demands with the long-term development of a product. I approached this by clearly defining and communicating the immediate goals while keeping the broader vision in mind. I allocated resources in a way that allowed the team to address urgent needs without neglecting long-term initiatives. Regular check-ins with stakeholders helped ensure we were meeting short-term expectations while keeping progress toward long-term objectives. This approach allowed us to manage both without sacrificing quality or strategic direction.
Question:
How do you ensure that lessons learned from a project are implemented in future projects?
Answer:
After each project, I conduct a thorough retrospective or post-mortem meeting with the team to analyze what went well and what could be improved. We document the lessons learned and discuss actionable steps to apply those insights in future projects. I then ensure that these lessons are incorporated into our workflows, either by updating project templates, introducing new tools, or modifying processes. By institutionalizing these improvements, we can avoid repeating mistakes and continuously improve our performance in future projects.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage conflicting stakeholder expectations. How did you handle it?
Answer:
In one project, I faced conflicting expectations from two key stakeholders—one prioritized speed, while the other focused on quality. To manage this, I facilitated a meeting where both stakeholders could openly discuss their priorities. I highlighted the trade-offs between speed and quality and proposed a balanced solution where we could meet an adjusted timeline while maintaining a high level of quality. By fostering open communication and offering a compromise, I aligned the stakeholders and kept the project moving forward.
Question:
How do you ensure that you maintain attention to detail while working in a high-pressure environment?
Answer:
In a high-pressure environment, I maintain attention to detail by breaking down complex tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. I prioritize tasks based on their importance and impact and create checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked. I also schedule focused work time to tackle the most critical tasks without distractions. Additionally, I build in time for review and double-checking to catch any potential errors. This structured approach allows me to stay organized and thorough, even when working under pressure.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you led a cross-functional team? How did you ensure collaboration and success?
Answer:
I once led a cross-functional team on a product launch, where we had team members from marketing, engineering, and sales. To ensure collaboration, I set up regular meetings where each team could share updates and address any challenges. I made sure that the project goals were clear and aligned across departments, and I encouraged open communication to avoid any silos. By facilitating open dialogue and creating shared objectives, I ensured that all teams worked cohesively, and the product launch was successful.