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 a project where the requirements change halfway through development?
Answer:
When requirements change midway through a project, I first assess the impact on the timeline, budget, and resources. I work with stakeholders to understand the reasons for the change and adjust the project plan accordingly. I communicate with the team to ensure they are aware of the new direction and re-prioritize tasks to focus on the most critical updates. I also review the project scope to ensure that any additional requests are managed carefully to avoid scope creep. By staying flexible and communicative, I help the team adapt without losing momentum.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to onboard a new team member in the middle of a project. How did you ensure they integrated smoothly?
Answer:
When onboarding a new team member mid-project, I ensure they have a clear understanding of the project’s current status and goals. I provide them with any necessary documentation and a walkthrough of the project’s key components. I also pair them with an experienced team member who can offer guidance and answer questions. Regular check-ins with the new hire help me monitor their progress and address any challenges. By providing structured support and ensuring clear communication, I help them integrate quickly and contribute effectively.
Question:
How do you handle competing demands from multiple stakeholders with differing priorities?
Answer:
When faced with competing demands, I first seek to understand each stakeholder’s priorities and the rationale behind their requests. I assess how each demand impacts the overall project objectives and then facilitate a discussion to align stakeholder expectations. By focusing on the project’s critical goals and communicating the trade-offs, I help stakeholders agree on a compromise. If necessary, I involve leadership to make decisions on prioritization. Clear communication and collaboration are key to managing these competing priorities effectively.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to recover a project that was falling behind schedule. What steps did you take?
Answer:
When a project was falling behind schedule, I started by identifying the causes of the delays, such as bottlenecks or resource constraints. I then revised the project plan, re-prioritizing tasks and reallocating resources where necessary. I communicated the new plan to stakeholders and the team to ensure alignment on the revised timeline. I also implemented regular status updates and tighter progress tracking to avoid further delays. By addressing the issues directly and adjusting the plan, we were able to catch up and successfully complete the project.
Question:
How do you ensure that you stay organized and manage multiple projects simultaneously?
Answer:
To manage multiple projects, I rely on project management tools to track tasks, deadlines, and progress. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, ensuring that high-priority projects receive attention first. I allocate specific time blocks for each project and hold regular status meetings with my team to stay updated on progress. By maintaining a detailed project schedule and staying proactive, I ensure that all projects move forward smoothly and on time.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to take over a project from a colleague. How did you get up to speed quickly?
Answer:
When I took over a project from a colleague, I began by reviewing all existing project documentation, including timelines, deliverables, and communication with stakeholders. I scheduled meetings with the team to understand the current status and any challenges they were facing. I also reached out to stakeholders to ensure alignment on expectations and timelines. By immersing myself in the project details and maintaining open communication, I was able to get up to speed quickly and lead the project to a successful completion.
Question:
How do you approach a situation where a project is delivered on time but doesn’t meet the client’s expectations?
Answer:
If a project is delivered on time but fails to meet client expectations, I first engage with the client to understand their concerns and the gaps between expectations and the deliverables. I then assess whether the issue stemmed from miscommunication, unclear requirements, or execution errors. Based on this assessment, I work with the team to make necessary adjustments or propose solutions that address the client’s concerns. Moving forward, I ensure tighter alignment with the client throughout the project to prevent similar issues.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project with very tight resources. How did you make it work?
Answer:
In a project with tight resources, I focused on prioritizing the most critical tasks and eliminating non-essential activities. I optimized the use of available resources by cross-training team members and ensuring efficient collaboration. I also maintained transparent communication with stakeholders to manage their expectations and secured additional resources when possible. By focusing on what was most important and making the best use of the team’s strengths, we were able to deliver the project successfully despite the constraints.
Question:
How do you approach measuring project success, beyond simply completing it on time and within budget?
Answer:
Beyond on-time and within-budget completion, I measure project success by evaluating the quality of deliverables, client or stakeholder satisfaction, and the project’s alignment with strategic objectives. I also assess whether the project met the key performance indicators (KPIs) that were defined at the outset. Additionally, I hold post-project reviews with the team and stakeholders to gather feedback and identify lessons learned, which helps refine future processes and improve overall success.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to work with a team that had low morale. How did you motivate them and improve performance?
Answer:
I once worked with a team that was feeling demotivated due to a series of challenging projects. To address this, I initiated open conversations to understand their concerns and challenges. I then focused on setting clear, achievable goals and celebrating small wins along the way to rebuild their confidence. I also provided opportunities for team members to contribute their ideas and take ownership of tasks. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, I was able to boost morale and improve team performance over time.
Question:
Can you describe a situation where you had to work under pressure to meet a tight deadline? How did you ensure success?
Answer:
In a previous project, we faced an unexpected client request with a tight deadline. To manage the pressure, I immediately prioritized tasks and delegated responsibilities to team members based on their strengths. I communicated clearly with stakeholders about what could realistically be achieved within the given timeframe and focused on critical deliverables. We worked efficiently, leveraging automation tools where possible, and maintained regular check-ins to ensure everyone stayed on track. By staying organized and focused, we met the deadline without sacrificing quality.
Question:
How do you handle projects where there are frequent changes in requirements or priorities?
Answer:
When managing projects with frequent changes in requirements, I stay flexible and maintain open communication with all stakeholders. I ensure that the team understands the evolving priorities and that we adjust timelines and resource allocations accordingly. I also document changes thoroughly to ensure there’s a clear record of the updated scope and objectives. By being adaptable and staying organized, I ensure the project remains aligned with business needs, even as requirements shift.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to collaborate with a team from a different department. How did you ensure effective communication and cooperation?
Answer:
In one project, I worked with a team from the marketing department to launch a new product feature. To ensure effective communication, we held regular cross-departmental meetings to align on objectives and timelines. I made an effort to understand the marketing team’s perspective and needs, which helped build trust and cooperation. We also used shared project management tools to keep everyone updated on progress. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, we successfully launched the feature on time and with coordinated efforts.
Question:
How do you ensure that you are effectively managing your time and workload?
Answer:
To manage my time and workload effectively, I use a combination of task prioritization and time management techniques. I start each day by listing my most important tasks and allocating specific time blocks for deep work. I also set realistic deadlines for each task and use project management tools to keep track of progress. By regularly reviewing my workload and adjusting as needed, I stay on top of my responsibilities and ensure that I meet deadlines without feeling overwhelmed.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to mentor or coach a colleague. How did you help them improve?
Answer:
I once mentored a junior colleague who was struggling with time management. We had a one-on-one discussion where I identified the key areas they needed help with. I shared techniques that had worked for me, such as using task prioritization tools and setting short-term goals. Over the next few weeks, I checked in regularly to provide guidance and feedback. By offering support and practical advice, I helped them improve their time management skills, which resulted in a noticeable increase in their productivity and confidence.
Question:
How do you handle confidential or sensitive information in your work?
Answer:
When handling confidential or sensitive information, I adhere strictly to company policies and data protection regulations. I ensure that sensitive data is only shared with authorized personnel and that it is stored securely using encryption or other appropriate security measures. I am also mindful of discussing sensitive topics in secure environments and avoid using unprotected communication channels. By following these practices, I ensure that confidential information is handled responsibly and securely.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to handle a difficult client or stakeholder. How did you manage the situation?
Answer:
In one project, we had a client who was unhappy with the progress and started making frequent last-minute changes. I scheduled a meeting to better understand their concerns and realigned the project goals with their expectations. I also set clearer communication channels and boundaries for change requests, ensuring they were submitted with enough time to be implemented. By actively listening and providing transparent updates, I rebuilt trust with the client, and we were able to deliver the project successfully.
Question:
How do you manage competing priorities when multiple tasks demand your attention at the same time?
Answer:
When faced with competing priorities, I assess each task based on its urgency and impact on the overall project or business goals. I prioritize tasks using methods like the Eisenhower Matrix to distinguish between urgent and important tasks. I also communicate with stakeholders to clarify deadlines and expectations. If necessary, I delegate tasks to ensure progress across all areas. By staying organized and maintaining clear communication, I can manage multiple priorities effectively without compromising on quality.
Question:
Describe a situation where you identified a process that needed improvement. How did you implement the change?
Answer:
In a previous role, I noticed that our team’s reporting process was time-consuming and prone to errors due to manual data entry. I proposed automating parts of the process using a new software tool. After getting approval, I worked with the team to implement the tool and provided training to ensure a smooth transition. The result was a more efficient reporting process that reduced errors and saved significant time. This change improved overall team productivity and accuracy.
Question:
How do you handle situations where you receive unclear or incomplete instructions for a task?
Answer:
When I receive unclear or incomplete instructions, I make sure to ask for clarification as soon as possible. I reach out to the person who assigned the task to get more specific details and to ensure I understand the goals and expectations. If clarification isn’t immediately available, I take initiative by breaking down the task based on my best judgment and proceed with a draft or proposal for feedback. This approach helps me stay proactive while ensuring that I deliver results that meet expectations.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to motivate a team that was facing challenges or low morale. How did you approach it?
Answer:
In one project, my team was facing burnout due to tight deadlines and high pressure. To boost morale, I scheduled a team meeting where we discussed the challenges openly. I acknowledged their hard work and emphasized the importance of their contributions. We then adjusted the workload by redistributing tasks and set realistic short-term goals to create a sense of accomplishment. I also arranged for small team-building activities to help relieve stress. By showing appreciation and making workload adjustments, I helped the team regain motivation and finish the project successfully.
Question:
How do you ensure accountability within a team, especially when working on complex projects?
Answer:
I ensure accountability within a team by setting clear expectations and assigning specific roles and responsibilities at the start of the project. I break down the project into manageable tasks and milestones, which allows us to track progress and identify any potential bottlenecks early. Regular check-ins and progress reports help keep everyone on track, and I encourage open communication so that any challenges can be addressed promptly. I also lead by example, taking ownership of my own tasks to foster a culture of accountability across the team.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to deliver a difficult message to a client or stakeholder. How did you approach it?
Answer:
I once had to inform a client that we would not be able to meet the agreed-upon deadline due to unforeseen technical challenges. I approached the situation by scheduling a call with the client to explain the issue transparently and provide details about the challenges we were facing. I offered a revised timeline and outlined the steps we were taking to address the problem. By being upfront and offering a solution, I was able to manage the client’s expectations and maintain a positive working relationship despite the setback.
Question:
How do you ensure that you remain adaptable when working in a fast-changing environment?
Answer:
I stay adaptable by maintaining a flexible mindset and being open to change. I regularly review my priorities and adjust my plans as needed to align with new developments. I also make an effort to stay informed about industry trends and new technologies, which helps me anticipate changes before they happen. By keeping communication lines open with stakeholders and embracing continuous learning, I am able to adapt quickly and effectively in fast-changing environments.
Question:
How do you manage expectations when a project’s scope expands unexpectedly?
Answer:
When a project’s scope expands unexpectedly, I first evaluate the impact on the timeline, resources, and budget. I then communicate with stakeholders to clarify the new expectations and discuss any necessary adjustments, such as extending deadlines or reallocating resources. I also work with the team to re-prioritize tasks and focus on the most critical objectives. By maintaining clear and transparent communication throughout the process, I ensure that all parties understand the implications of the expanded scope and remain aligned on the project’s goals.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you disagreed with a colleague or supervisor on a decision. How did you resolve the conflict?
Answer:
I once disagreed with my supervisor on the direction of a project. Instead of pushing back immediately, I took the time to gather data and prepare a well-thought-out case supporting my viewpoint. I then scheduled a meeting to calmly present my concerns and suggestions. We had a constructive discussion, during which I acknowledged their perspective while explaining my rationale. In the end, we reached a compromise that integrated elements from both viewpoints, improving the overall project outcome. Open communication and mutual respect were key to resolving the conflict.
Question:
How do you approach situations where you have to lead a team without formal authority?
Answer:
When leading a team without formal authority, I focus on building trust and credibility by demonstrating my expertise and commitment to the project. I encourage open communication, actively listen to team members’ ideas, and foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued. I lead by example, showing dedication to achieving the shared goals, and use influence rather than authority to guide the team. By establishing mutual respect and aligning the team around common objectives, I ensure effective collaboration even without formal authority.
Question:
Describe a time when you took a calculated risk at work. What was the outcome?
Answer:
In a previous project, we were considering whether to adopt a new, untested software solution that promised to increase efficiency. I researched the potential benefits and risks, and after consulting with key stakeholders, I recommended proceeding with a pilot test on a smaller scale. The pilot proved successful, significantly reducing processing time. Based on this outcome, we rolled out the solution across the department, resulting in improved productivity and workflow efficiency. Taking the calculated risk paid off, as we were able to enhance our operations with minimal disruption.
Question:
How do you ensure effective knowledge transfer when a project is handed over to another team or department?
Answer:
To ensure effective knowledge transfer, I create detailed documentation outlining all key aspects of the project, including processes, challenges, solutions, and any relevant data. I also organize handover meetings where I walk the receiving team through the project, answering any questions they may have. Additionally, I make myself available for follow-up support during the transition phase. By providing clear, comprehensive documentation and offering continued support, I ensure that the new team is well-equipped to take over the project successfully.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to implement feedback that you initially disagreed with. How did you handle it?
Answer:
I once received feedback from a client that they wanted to change the direction of a project, which I initially disagreed with as it deviated from the original goals. However, after discussing their reasoning and considering their needs, I realized that the change could add value in a way I hadn’t initially considered. I implemented the feedback, ensuring that the modifications aligned with the new direction while maintaining as much of the original plan as possible. In the end, the project’s success was enhanced by this adaptation, and it strengthened our relationship with the client.
Question:
How do you handle working in an environment where priorities are constantly shifting?
Answer:
In an environment with constantly shifting priorities, I remain flexible by regularly reassessing my tasks and adjusting my schedule accordingly. I stay in close communication with stakeholders to ensure that I’m aware of any changes as soon as they arise. By focusing on the most urgent and high-impact tasks, I can pivot quickly when needed without losing sight of long-term goals. I also maintain a structured workflow to keep organized amidst the changes, ensuring that I can adapt without sacrificing the quality of my work.
Question:
Can you describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult team member? How did you ensure the project stayed on track?
Answer:
In a past project, one team member was consistently missing deadlines and not fully collaborating with the rest of the team. I took the initiative to have a one-on-one conversation with them to understand the root cause of their behavior. After discussing the issue, it became clear that they were overwhelmed with their workload. I worked with them to adjust their responsibilities and offered additional support from the team. By addressing the problem directly and constructively, we were able to improve their performance and keep the project on track.
Question:
How do you keep up with new developments in your field, and how do you apply them to your work?
Answer:
I stay up to date with new developments in my field by subscribing to industry newsletters, attending webinars, and participating in professional networks. I also follow thought leaders and relevant publications to stay informed on the latest trends and best practices. When I learn about a new tool or methodology, I evaluate its potential impact on my work and experiment with ways to incorporate it into my processes. Continuous learning allows me to stay current and apply innovative solutions that improve both my efficiency and the quality of my work.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to manage a project that was at risk of failing. What actions did you take to turn it around?
Answer:
During a complex project, we encountered significant delays due to external vendor issues, putting the project at risk of failing. To turn things around, I initiated a crisis meeting with the team to identify the key challenges and brainstorm solutions. We re-prioritized tasks and reallocated resources to mitigate the impact of the delays. I also communicated with the vendor to expedite their deliverables and set clear expectations moving forward. By acting quickly and decisively, we were able to get the project back on track and successfully complete it within the revised timeline.