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: Describe your ideal work environment.
Answer: I thrive in a collaborative and supportive environment where I can learn and grow. I value open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to excellence. I also appreciate a workplace that encourages innovation, provides opportunities for professional development, and recognizes employee contributions.
Question: What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Answer: (Focus on strengths relevant to the job and weaknesses that you are actively working to improve)
"One of my key strengths is my ability to [strength 1, e.g., analyze complex data and identify trends] which I demonstrated in my previous role by [give a specific example]. I'm also a strong [strength 2, e.g., communicator] and enjoy collaborating with others to achieve shared goals.
As for areas for improvement, I'm working on [weakness, e.g., becoming more comfortable with public speaking]. To address this, I recently [action taken, e.g., joined Toastmasters and volunteered to present at a team meeting]."
Question: Tell me about a time you failed. What did you learn from it?
Answer: (Choose a real failure, but not a catastrophic one. Focus on what you learned.)
"In a previous project, I underestimated the time required to complete a task, which led to a missed deadline. While it was a setback, it taught me the importance of careful planning, realistic time management, and proactive communication. Now, I break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, use project management tools to track progress, and communicate potential challenges early on."
Question: Why are you interested in this position?
Answer: (Tailor this to the specific role and company)
"I'm excited about this opportunity because [reason 1, e.g., it aligns with my skills and experience in X] and I'm eager to contribute to [company goal or mission]. I've been particularly impressed by [something specific about the company, e.g., your commitment to innovation/customer service/ sustainability]. I believe my skills in [mention relevant skills] would be a valuable asset to your team, and I'm confident I can make a significant contribution to [mention specific area/project]."
Question: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: (Be ambitious but realistic. Align your answer with the company's potential career paths.)
"In five years, I see myself as a valuable member of this organization, having grown both professionally and personally. I'm eager to take on increasing responsibility and contribute to the company's success in a leadership role. I'm also committed to continuous learning and development, and I hope to expand my skills in [mention areas relevant to the company's future]. "
Question: What questions do you have for me?
Answer: (Always have a few insightful questions prepared. This shows your interest and engagement.)
- "Can you tell me more about the company's culture and values?"
- "What are the biggest challenges facing the team right now?"
- "What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company?"
- "What are the next steps in the hiring process?"
Question: Tell me about a time you had to work under pressure.
Answer: "In my previous role, we were launching a new product and faced a last-minute technical issue. With the deadline looming, I collaborated closely with the development team to identify the root cause and implement a solution. I remained calm under pressure, prioritized tasks effectively, and communicated clearly with stakeholders throughout the process. We were able to resolve the issue and successfully launch the product on time."
Question: Describe a situation where you had to persuade someone to see your point of view.
Answer: "In a previous project, I proposed a new marketing strategy that I believed would be more effective. However, a key stakeholder was hesitant to deviate from the traditional approach. To persuade them, I presented data and research supporting my proposal, highlighting the potential benefits and addressing their concerns. I also acknowledged the value of the traditional approach while emphasizing the potential for improved results with the new strategy. Ultimately, my persuasive presentation and data-driven arguments convinced the stakeholder to embrace the new approach, which led to a successful campaign."
Question: How do you handle constructive criticism?
Answer: "I view constructive criticism as a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively listen to the feedback, ask clarifying questions to ensure I understand the perspective, and reflect on how I can apply the insights to enhance my performance. I appreciate when feedback is specific and actionable, and I strive to incorporate it into my work to achieve better outcomes."
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with ambiguity or uncertainty in a project.
Answer: "In a previous role, we were tasked with developing a new product for a market with limited data available. To navigate the uncertainty, we conducted thorough market research, engaged with potential customers to understand their needs, and developed a flexible plan that allowed us to adapt as we gathered more information. We also embraced an iterative approach, testing and refining our product based on feedback and evolving market insights."
Question: How do you prioritize your work when you have multiple deadlines and competing demands?
Answer: "I prioritize my work by first assessing the urgency and importance of each task. I consider deadlines, potential impact, and dependencies. I use tools like to-do lists and project management software to organize my tasks and track progress. I also communicate proactively with stakeholders to manage expectations and ensure alignment on priorities."
Question: Give an example of a time you demonstrated leadership skills, even if you weren't in a formal leadership role.
Answer: "In a previous team project, we were struggling to meet a tight deadline. I took the initiative to organize the team's efforts, delegate tasks based on individual strengths, and facilitate communication to ensure everyone was aligned. I also motivated the team by recognizing contributions and maintaining a positive attitude. While I wasn't the official team leader, my proactive approach helped us overcome the challenges and deliver the project successfully."
Question: How do you stay updated on industry trends and developments?
Answer: "I stay informed by regularly reading industry publications, attending conferences and webinars, and engaging with thought leaders on professional networking platforms. I also participate in online communities and forums to exchange ideas and learn from others in my field. I believe continuous learning is essential to stay ahead in today's rapidly evolving landscape."
Question: What motivates you to do your best work?
Answer: (Be genuine and specific. Connect your answer to the company's values or mission if possible.)
"I'm motivated by a desire to make a meaningful contribution and achieve results. I thrive on challenges and enjoy solving problems that have a positive impact. I'm also driven by a sense of purpose and the opportunity to learn and grow. In this role, I'm particularly excited by the prospect of [relate to the company's mission or values, e.g., 'contributing to innovative solutions that benefit customers' or 'being part of a company that prioritizes sustainability']."
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.