CSR Fundraiser
About the Organization: Utkarsh Global Foundation (formerly known as Utkarsh Star Mitra Mandal) is a nationwide non-profit organization dedicated to promoting societal welfare in collaboration with government bodies. Our work spans diverse areas, including environmental protection, animal welfare, women's education and empowerment, social justice, and disaster preparedness. Our mission is to create a better world for all living beings and the environment.
Job Title: CSR Fundraiser
Job Summary: The CSR Fundraiser will spearhead the organization’s efforts to secure funding through strategic partnerships with corporate entities and other stakeholders. This role demands a proactive professional with strong networking capabilities and a comprehensive understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices and trends.
Key Responsibilities: • Develop and Implement Fundraising Strategies • Design and execute effective fundraising plans to attract and retain corporate donors and sponsors. • Build and Maintain Relationships • Foster strong relationships with existing and prospective corporate partners, including decision-makers and influencers. • Proposal Writing • Prepare and present persuasive proposals to secure funding and align corporate interests with organizational goals. • Event Management • Plan and oversee fundraising events and campaigns in collaboration with marketing and events teams. • Reporting and Monitoring • Track fundraising progress, donor engagement, and campaign performance, providing regular reports to senior management. • Market Research • Stay updated on CSR trends, emerging opportunities, and identify potential funding sources.
• Internal Collaboration • Work with communications and program teams to ensure alignment of fundraising efforts with organizational objectives.
Qualifications: Education: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field. • Advanced degrees or certifications in nonprofit management or fundraising are preferred. Experience: • Minimum of 3–5 years in a leadership role within an NGO or similar organization. Skills: • Exceptional communication and presentation skills. • Strong networking and relationship-building expertise. • Proficiency in proposal writing and grant management. • Hands-on experience with CRM software and fundraising tools. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
Benefits: • Competitive salary and benefits package. • A chance to make a significant impact in the community. • Supportive and collaborative workplace culture. • Opportunities for professional development and growth.
Join Utkarsh Global Foundation and become a catalyst for positive change in society. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.
Prepare for real-time interview for : CSR Fundraiser with these targeted questions & answers to showcase your skills and experience in first attempt, with 100% confidence.
Question:
How do you approach a situation where key stakeholders have conflicting priorities or goals for a project?
Answer:
When stakeholders have conflicting priorities, I first facilitate a discussion to clarify each stakeholder’s goals and expectations. I focus on understanding the broader business objectives and how each priority fits into the bigger picture. I help stakeholders recognize the trade-offs involved with each option and encourage collaboration to find a compromise that aligns with the project’s overall goals. By focusing on transparent communication and fostering a collaborative mindset, I help align stakeholders and move forward with a unified plan.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult client. How did you maintain a positive working relationship?
Answer:
In one project, the client was frequently changing requirements, which caused disruptions. I took the time to listen to their concerns and worked to understand the root cause of the changes. I scheduled regular check-ins to provide updates and clarify expectations, which helped manage their concerns proactively. By setting clear boundaries and maintaining open communication, I was able to address their needs without jeopardizing the project timeline. This approach strengthened our working relationship and ultimately led to a successful outcome.
Question:
How do you ensure your team remains productive and focused during long-term projects?
Answer:
For long-term projects, I set clear milestones and break the project down into smaller, manageable tasks. This helps the team focus on short-term goals and maintain a sense of progress. I also celebrate small wins along the way to keep morale high. Regular check-ins and open communication help address any concerns or bottlenecks early. By keeping the team engaged with achievable milestones and providing consistent support, I ensure productivity remains high throughout the duration of the project.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to quickly pivot a project due to unforeseen challenges. How did you manage it?
Answer:
In one project, we encountered a major technical issue that disrupted our original plan. I quickly gathered the team to assess the situation and identify alternative solutions. We re-prioritized tasks and adjusted the project timeline to accommodate the necessary changes. I communicated with stakeholders to manage expectations and ensured the team remained focused on the new objectives. By staying calm and adapting our approach, we were able to pivot successfully and deliver the project with minimal delays.
Question:
How do you manage stress and maintain performance during high-pressure situations?
Answer:
In high-pressure situations, I stay organized by prioritizing tasks and breaking them into smaller, actionable steps. This helps me focus on immediate priorities without feeling overwhelmed. I also maintain open communication with the team and stakeholders to ensure everyone is aligned. Taking short breaks and managing my time effectively helps me stay refreshed and maintain productivity. By staying focused and keeping a clear plan in mind, I manage stress and continue to perform well under pressure.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to overcome resistance to change within a team. How did you manage it?
Answer:
When implementing a new software tool in a previous project, I encountered resistance from team members who were comfortable with the old process. I addressed their concerns by organizing a series of training sessions to demonstrate how the new tool would improve their workflows. I also encouraged them to share feedback and suggestions during the transition. By involving the team in the process and offering support, I was able to overcome resistance and ensure a smooth adoption of the new tool.
Question:
How do you ensure that project deliverables meet both the client’s expectations and the company’s quality standards?
Answer:
To ensure deliverables meet both client expectations and quality standards, I begin by establishing clear requirements and deliverables at the outset of the project. I maintain close communication with the client throughout the project to ensure alignment and address any changes early. Internally, I set up regular quality checks and reviews to ensure that the team adheres to company standards. By maintaining these practices, I ensure that deliverables are on time, meet client needs, and are of the highest quality.
Question:
Tell me about a time when you had to manage a project across different geographic locations or time zones. How did you ensure collaboration?
Answer:
In a global project involving teams in different time zones, I established clear communication protocols and tools to ensure collaboration. We used project management software to keep everyone updated asynchronously and scheduled meetings at times that overlapped for all teams. I made sure to document decisions and share meeting notes to keep everyone informed, regardless of time zone. By fostering transparency and leveraging technology, I ensured smooth collaboration and alignment across all locations.
Question:
How do you handle a situation where a project is falling behind schedule?
Answer:
When a project falls behind schedule, I first assess the root cause of the delay by reviewing the progress and identifying any bottlenecks. I then prioritize critical tasks and redistribute resources to address the most urgent issues. I communicate with stakeholders to reset expectations and adjust the timeline if necessary. I also encourage the team to focus on efficiency while maintaining quality. By addressing the delay early and making necessary adjustments, I work to bring the project back on track.
Question:
Describe a time when you had to implement a new process that improved team efficiency. What steps did you take?
Answer:
In a previous role, I identified inefficiencies in our project handoff process between departments. I introduced a standardized template that included key deliverables, deadlines, and responsibilities to ensure smoother transitions. I trained the team on the new process and gathered feedback to refine it. The result was a significant reduction in miscommunication and delays, improving overall efficiency. By implementing a clear process and ensuring team buy-in, we were able to streamline workflows and improve productivity.
Question: Describe a time you had to deal with a conflict between two team members.
Answer: "Two colleagues had a disagreement about the direction of a project. I facilitated a meeting where both could express their concerns respectfully. I helped them find common ground, identify shared goals, and ultimately reach a compromise that benefited the project and preserved their working relationship."
Question: How do you handle making decisions with limited information?
Answer: "I gather as much relevant information as possible within the given timeframe, analyze the potential risks and benefits of each option, and consult with colleagues or experts when necessary. I'm comfortable making informed decisions even with incomplete information, and I'm prepared to adapt my approach as new information becomes available."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to take on a leadership role, even if you weren't officially in charge.
Answer: "During a team project, our designated leader was unexpectedly unavailable. I stepped up to coordinate tasks, facilitate communication, and motivate the team to stay on track. My initiative and leadership skills helped us maintain momentum and successfully complete the project."
Question: How do you approach setting goals for yourself and your team?
Answer: "I set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) that align with the company's objectives. I involve the team in the goal-setting process to ensure buy-in and ownership. I also break down large goals into smaller milestones and track progress regularly to maintain motivation and accountability."
Question: Give an example of a time you had to overcome a significant obstacle or challenge in your work.
Answer: "We encountered a major setback in a project due to unforeseen circumstances. I remained positive, analyzed the situation, and developed a revised plan to address the challenges. I motivated the team to persevere, and we successfully overcame the obstacle and delivered the project with minimal delays."
Question: How do you handle working on multiple projects simultaneously?
Answer: "I prioritize tasks effectively, utilize project management tools to stay organized, and communicate clearly with stakeholders about deadlines and progress. I'm adept at managing my time and resources to ensure all projects receive the necessary attention and are completed successfully."
Question: What are your preferred methods for staying organized and managing your workload?
Answer: "I use a combination of tools and techniques, including to-do lists, calendars, project management software, and time blocking. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and I regularly review my progress to ensure I'm on track."
Question: How do you approach building relationships with clients or customers?
Answer: "I prioritize building trust and rapport by actively listening to their needs, communicating clearly and honestly, and delivering on my commitments. I strive to understand their perspectives, provide excellent service, and maintain long-term relationships."
Question: Tell me about a time you had to deal with a stressful or challenging situation at work.
Answer: "During a product launch, we encountered a last-minute technical issue that threatened to delay the release. I remained calm under pressure, collaborated with the technical team to identify a solution, and communicated effectively with stakeholders to manage expectations. We successfully resolved the issue and launched the product with minimal disruption."
Question: What are your salary expectations for this role, and what factors are most important to you in considering a job offer?
Answer: "My salary expectations are in the range of [mention your desired range], based on my skills, experience, and research on comparable positions. However, I'm also prioritizing factors such as opportunities for growth and development, a positive and inclusive work environment, and the company's commitment to [mention values or initiatives that are important to you, e.g., social responsibility, innovation, work-life balance]."
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.