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:
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 situation where you received conflicting feedback from different stakeholders.
Answer: "I was working on a project where I received conflicting feedback from two key stakeholders. One stakeholder wanted to prioritize speed, while the other emphasized thoroughness. I carefully considered both perspectives, analyzed the potential impact of each approach, and facilitated a discussion to find a solution that balanced both needs. Through effective communication and compromise, we were able to reach an agreement that satisfied both stakeholders and allowed the project to move forward."
Question: How do you approach identifying areas for improvement in your own work and developing your skills?
Answer: "I regularly seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to gain insights into my strengths and areas for development. I also engage in self-reflection and identify skills or knowledge gaps that I can address through training, mentorship, or challenging assignments. I believe in continuous learning and actively seek opportunities to improve my performance and expand my skillset."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to deal with a situation where you had to adapt to a new technology or software quickly.
Answer: "My team adopted a new project management software that I was unfamiliar with. I proactively explored the software's features, utilized online tutorials and documentation, and sought guidance from colleagues who were already proficient. I quickly learned the new system and was able to effectively utilize it to manage projects and collaborate with the team."
Question: How do you approach building consensus within a team when there are differing opinions or ideas?
Answer: "I encourage open communication and active listening to ensure all team members feel heard and understood. I facilitate brainstorming sessions to explore different perspectives and ideas, and I guide the team towards a consensus through collaborative decision-making and compromise. I believe that diverse viewpoints can lead to better solutions when managed effectively."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to work on a project that required you to collaborate with individuals from different departments or teams.
Answer: "I was involved in a project that required collaboration with the marketing, sales, and product development teams. I facilitated cross-functional meetings, ensured clear communication channels, and fostered a collaborative environment to effectively leverage the expertise of each team. Through effective teamwork and communication, we were able to successfully launch a new product that met the needs of our customers."
Question: How do you handle working under pressure or in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines?
Answer: "I thrive in fast-paced environments and am adept at managing multiple tasks and deadlines. I prioritize effectively, utilize time management techniques, and maintain a calm and focused demeanor 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, especially when faced with repetitive or mundane tasks?
Answer: "I find motivation in setting clear goals, breaking down large tasks into smaller milestones, and celebrating accomplishments along the way. I also seek out opportunities to learn new skills, take on challenging assignments, and contribute to projects that align with my interests and values. Even with repetitive tasks, I focus on the bigger picture and the impact my work has on the team and the company."
Question: How do you approach resolving conflicts or disagreements with colleagues or clients in a professional and constructive manner?
Answer: "I address conflicts with a calm and respectful demeanor, focusing on understanding the perspectives of all parties involved. I actively listen, communicate clearly, and seek solutions that address the concerns of everyone involved. I believe in finding mutually beneficial outcomes and maintaining positive working relationships."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment or company culture.
Answer: "My company underwent a merger that resulted in significant changes to the organizational structure and company culture. I embraced the change, proactively sought to understand the new expectations and values, and adapted my communication and work style accordingly. I also supported my colleagues through the transition and contributed to building a positive and inclusive work environment."
Question: What are your preferred methods for continuous learning and development in your field, and how do you stay current with industry trends and best practices?
Answer: "I utilize various resources for continuous learning, including online courses, industry publications, professional conferences, and networking with colleagues and experts. I also seek out mentorship opportunities and engage in self-reflection to identify areas for growth and development. I believe in staying current with industry trends and best practices to maintain a competitive edge and contribute effectively to the company's success."