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 handle situations where your team is working under tight deadlines and the quality of work may be at risk?
Answer:
When facing tight deadlines, I prioritize tasks that have the highest impact on the project’s success while ensuring quality standards are maintained. I communicate with the team to assess if additional support or resources are needed to meet the deadline without sacrificing quality. If necessary, I delegate non-critical tasks or adjust the timeline by communicating with stakeholders. Regular quality checks during the process ensure that even under pressure, we meet the project’s goals without compromising on the end product.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to mediate a dispute between team members. What approach did you take?
Answer:
During a project, two team members had a disagreement about the direction of a task. I brought both individuals into a neutral setting to discuss their perspectives. I listened carefully to each side and encouraged them to find common ground, focusing on the project’s objectives rather than personal preferences. By helping them communicate openly and guiding the conversation toward a solution, we were able to resolve the conflict and move forward with a clearer, unified approach.
Question:
How do you ensure that your projects are aligned with the company’s strategic objectives?
Answer:
To align my projects with the company’s strategic objectives, I begin by thoroughly understanding the organization’s goals and how the project contributes to them. I regularly communicate with senior leadership to ensure we’re on track and adjust the project plan as necessary to stay aligned. I also set clear, measurable objectives that tie directly to company priorities, which I review at key milestones to ensure ongoing alignment.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to handle a project that was assigned to you at the last minute. How did you manage to deliver it on time?
Answer:
I was once assigned a project last minute with a tight deadline. To manage it, I quickly gathered all the necessary information and prioritized the most critical tasks. I delegated responsibilities to team members based on their strengths and focused on delivering the essential components first. I communicated with stakeholders to set realistic expectations and provided regular updates on our progress. By staying organized and focusing on what was feasible, we delivered the project on time and met the key objectives.
Question:
How do you ensure that your team remains engaged and motivated during long-term projects with little immediate feedback?
Answer:
I keep my team engaged in long-term projects by setting short-term milestones and celebrating small wins along the way. This provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps the team motivated. I also maintain regular communication to ensure that everyone is clear on their contributions to the larger goal. Encouraging team members to share their challenges and successes during regular check-ins helps to foster collaboration and keeps morale high, even when immediate feedback is limited.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with significant regulatory or compliance requirements. How did you ensure compliance?
Answer:
In a previous project, we had to ensure compliance with strict industry regulations. I started by thoroughly reviewing the regulatory requirements and working closely with the compliance team to integrate those standards into our project plan. I built in checkpoints throughout the project to ensure we were staying compliant, and I held regular reviews with stakeholders to address any potential risks. By embedding compliance into the workflow from the start, we ensured that all deliverables met regulatory standards without causing delays.
Question:
How do you manage a situation where a key team member is suddenly unavailable during a critical phase of the project?
Answer:
If a key team member becomes unavailable during a critical phase, I quickly assess their responsibilities and determine the most urgent tasks. I redistribute the workload among the team, ensuring that the most skilled members take on the critical tasks. If necessary, I adjust the project timeline slightly to accommodate the change and communicate the situation to stakeholders. I also look for external resources or temporary support if the workload exceeds the team’s capacity. By acting swiftly and ensuring clear communication, we can minimize disruption to the project.
Question:
Describe a time when you were responsible for managing a project’s budget. How did you ensure that the project stayed within budget?
Answer:
I managed a project with a tight budget, and to stay within limits, I carefully tracked all expenses from the start. I reviewed the budget regularly and identified areas where we could reduce costs without impacting the project’s quality. I negotiated with vendors for discounts and found ways to optimize resource allocation. By maintaining close control of the budget and making adjustments where needed, we were able to complete the project within the allocated financial resources.
Question:
How do you handle a situation where the project goals are unclear or frequently changing?
Answer:
When project goals are unclear or frequently changing, I prioritize communication with stakeholders to clarify objectives and gather as much information as possible. I document changes and ensure that the team understands the new direction. I also implement a flexible project plan that can adapt to evolving goals without causing delays. By maintaining ongoing dialogue and being adaptable, I ensure that the team stays focused and aligned, even when the objectives shift.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with tight interdependencies between teams. How did you ensure coordination?
Answer:
In a project with tight interdependencies between teams, I set up a clear communication plan from the outset. We held regular cross-team meetings to update each other on progress and address any blockers that could impact other teams. I also created a shared project dashboard to track dependencies and ensure transparency. By keeping everyone aligned and addressing potential issues early, we were able to maintain smooth coordination and meet our shared deadlines.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you had to manage a sudden change in project scope? How did you handle it?
Answer:
When a project I was leading experienced a sudden change in scope due to client requirements, I quickly gathered the team to reassess the new objectives. I redefined the priorities and updated the project plan to reflect the changes. I communicated the impact of the scope change to all stakeholders, adjusted timelines, and ensured that resources were reallocated effectively. By maintaining flexibility and ensuring transparency, we managed to meet the new requirements without sacrificing quality.
Question:
How do you ensure continuous improvement in your work processes?
Answer:
I implement continuous improvement by regularly reviewing workflows and seeking feedback from team members. After completing projects, I hold retrospective meetings to identify what worked well and where we can improve. I also stay informed about new tools or methodologies that can enhance efficiency. By fostering a culture of open communication and learning, I ensure that improvements are an ongoing process, helping us optimize performance and adapt to changing needs.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to meet a tight deadline with limited resources. How did you ensure success?
Answer:
In a previous project with a tight deadline and limited resources, I immediately assessed the most critical tasks and prioritized them. I streamlined workflows by cutting non-essential tasks and optimized resource allocation to focus on high-impact areas. I also communicated clearly with stakeholders about what could realistically be achieved within the constraints. By focusing on the essentials and maintaining clear communication, we met the deadline without compromising the quality of deliverables.
Question:
How do you approach working with stakeholders who have conflicting priorities?
Answer:
When working with stakeholders with conflicting priorities, I start by understanding each stakeholder’s needs and the reasons behind their priorities. I then facilitate a discussion to align on the broader organizational goals and how each priority fits into the bigger picture. By focusing on shared objectives and demonstrating the trade-offs of different options, I help stakeholders come to a compromise. If necessary, I escalate the decision to leadership to ensure alignment with the company’s overall strategy.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision with limited information. How did you handle it?
Answer:
In one project, I had to make a quick decision on a vendor selection with limited data. I gathered the available information, identified the key factors that would impact the project, and consulted with colleagues who had experience with similar vendors. I weighed the risks and made the decision based on the information I had, while keeping contingency plans in place in case adjustments were needed. The decision turned out well, but the contingency plans ensured that we were prepared for any challenges.
Question:
How do you handle working on a team where people have very different working styles?
Answer:
When working with a team of diverse working styles, I make it a point to understand each person’s strengths and preferences. I adapt my communication and collaboration style to meet the needs of the team members, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable contributing. I also set clear expectations and establish common goals to keep the team focused on the overall objective. Encouraging open dialogue and promoting flexibility helps us leverage the different working styles to achieve better outcomes.
Question:
Can you give an example of how you’ve handled a project where the final outcome didn’t meet initial expectations?
Answer:
In a project where the final outcome didn’t meet initial expectations due to unforeseen technical challenges, I first took responsibility for the result and communicated transparently with the stakeholders. I conducted a detailed post-mortem to identify where things went wrong and what could have been done differently. I worked with the team to develop an action plan to correct the issues and ensure that similar problems wouldn’t occur in future projects. By taking a solution-oriented approach, we were able to address the gaps and regain trust.
Question:
How do you manage competing deadlines from different teams or projects?
Answer:
When managing competing deadlines, I assess the urgency and impact of each project or task. I communicate with all relevant stakeholders to understand their expectations and determine if deadlines can be adjusted. I then create a prioritized plan, ensuring the most critical tasks are completed first while keeping others informed of any changes. If necessary, I delegate tasks to ensure nothing falls behind, while maintaining constant communication to manage expectations and prevent any bottlenecks.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to resolve a disagreement between team members. How did you handle it?
Answer:
In a previous role, two team members had a disagreement over the best approach to a project. I facilitated a conversation between them, encouraging each to express their viewpoint openly. I listened carefully and helped them find common ground by focusing on the project’s goals rather than personal preferences. I suggested a compromise that combined elements from both approaches, and we tested the solution to see how it worked in practice. The compromise not only resolved the disagreement but also improved collaboration going forward.
Question:
How do you ensure that your team stays aligned with the project’s objectives and goals?
Answer:
I ensure team alignment by setting clear, measurable objectives at the start of each project and communicating them effectively to the team. I hold regular check-ins to track progress and address any questions or challenges that arise. I also encourage open communication, so team members feel comfortable raising concerns early. By keeping the team focused on the overarching goals and providing ongoing feedback, I ensure that everyone remains aligned and motivated to achieve the desired outcomes.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to make a decision that was unpopular with your team. How did you handle it?
Answer:
In a past project, I had to implement a process change that wasn’t popular with the team because it required additional work upfront. I explained the rationale behind the decision, emphasizing how it would benefit the project in the long run by improving efficiency and reducing errors. I also sought input from the team on how we could implement the change in a way that minimized the burden. By involving the team in the decision-making process and being transparent, I was able to gain their support despite the initial resistance.
Question:
How do you handle underperforming team members to help them improve?
Answer:
When dealing with an underperforming team member, I start by having a one-on-one conversation to understand the reasons behind the performance issues. I provide constructive feedback, focusing on specific areas for improvement and offering support in terms of resources, mentorship, or training. Together, we set clear performance goals with measurable outcomes. I also check in regularly to track progress and provide additional guidance if needed. By creating a supportive environment and setting clear expectations, I help them improve and contribute more effectively to the team.
Question:
Can you describe a situation where you had to quickly adapt to a significant change in the company or industry? How did you handle it?
Answer:
In one instance, the company underwent a major reorganization, which affected team structures and project priorities. To adapt, I took the time to fully understand the new organizational framework and how it impacted my role and responsibilities. I reached out to key stakeholders to realign on goals and expectations. I also worked closely with my team to help them adjust to the changes by providing clarity on new processes and encouraging open discussions. By staying proactive and adaptable, I ensured a smooth transition and minimized disruption to our work.
Question:
How do you manage your own professional development while meeting your work responsibilities?
Answer:
I manage my professional development by setting aside time each week to focus on learning, whether through online courses, reading industry-related content, or attending webinars. I also seek feedback from my peers and supervisors to identify areas where I can improve. I prioritize my development goals alongside my work responsibilities, ensuring that I stay efficient and organized in both areas. By continuously seeking new knowledge and skills, I am able to stay current in my field while meeting the demands of my role.
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with a difficult or unexpected situation with a client.
Answer: "A client was unhappy with a deliverable that didn't meet their initial expectations. I actively listened to their concerns, acknowledged their frustration, and clarified any misunderstandings. I then collaborated with the team to revise the deliverable and ensure it aligned with the client's needs. Through clear communication and a solution-oriented approach, we were able to regain the client's trust and satisfaction."
Question: How do you approach building trust and rapport with colleagues from different departments or teams?
Answer: "I prioritize open communication, active listening, and mutual respect. I make an effort to understand their roles, perspectives, and challenges. I also seek opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing to foster strong working relationships across departments."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to make a decision that involved ethical considerations.
Answer: "I faced a situation where a colleague was not adhering to company policies. I weighed the potential consequences and decided to report the issue to my supervisor, even though it was a difficult decision. I prioritized upholding ethical standards and acting with integrity, even when it was challenging."
Question: How do you approach receiving and incorporating feedback on your work?
Answer: "I welcome feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively listen to the feedback, ask clarifying questions, and reflect on how I can apply the suggestions to enhance my performance. I appreciate specific and constructive feedback that helps me develop my skills and achieve better results."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to work on a project with a limited budget or resources.
Answer: "We were tasked with organizing a company event with a limited budget. I researched cost-effective options, negotiated with vendors, and creatively utilized available resources. Through careful planning and resource management, we successfully delivered a successful event within the budget constraints."
Question: How do you handle working under pressure or in a fast-paced environment?
Answer: "I thrive in fast-paced environments and am adept at managing multiple tasks and deadlines. I prioritize effectively, stay organized, and maintain a calm and focused demeanor even under pressure. I also communicate proactively with my team and stakeholders to ensure alignment and manage expectations."
Question: What are your preferred methods for staying motivated and engaged in your work?
Answer: "I set challenging yet achievable goals, break down large tasks into smaller milestones, and celebrate accomplishments along the way. I also find motivation in collaborating with colleagues, learning new skills, and contributing to meaningful projects that align with my values."
Question: How do you approach resolving conflicts or disagreements with colleagues or clients?
Answer: "I address conflicts with a calm and respectful demeanor. I actively listen to understand different perspectives, identify common ground, and seek solutions that address the concerns of all parties involved. I prioritize open communication and collaboration to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to adapt your communication style to effectively convey a message to a specific audience.
Answer: "I was presenting technical information to a non-technical audience. I adapted my communication style by using simpler language, avoiding jargon, and incorporating visual aids and real-world examples to ensure clarity and understanding."
Question: What are your expectations for work-life balance in this role, and how do you prioritize your well-being?
Answer: "I value a healthy work-life balance and believe it's essential for maintaining productivity and well-being. I prioritize my well-being by setting boundaries between work and personal time, engaging in activities I enjoy, and practicing self-care. I also appreciate a company culture that supports work-life balance and employee well-being."