Best Practices for Hiring a Grant Writer for Your Nonprofit

Hiring the right grant writer is a crucial step for any nonprofit looking to secure funding and grow its impact. The process can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can find a grant writer who not only possesses the necessary skills but also aligns with your organization’s mission and values. In this post, I’ll share three best practices to guide you through the hiring process.

Define Your Nonprofit’s Needs and Expectations

Before you even begin your search, it’s important to clearly define what your organization needs from a grant writer. Are you looking for someone with experience in a specific type of grant or a particular sector? Do you need someone who can handle the entire process from research to reporting, or just a skilled writer to craft proposals? By outlining these needs, you’ll be able to create a job description that attracts the right candidates.

Assess Past Performance and Expertise

When reviewing candidates, it’s essential to look beyond their resumes and assess their track record. Ask for examples of successful grants they’ve written, especially in fields similar to yours. A grant writer who has achieved success in comparable areas will likely be more effective for your organization. Don’t hesitate to contact references and ask detailed questions about their performance, reliability, and work ethic.

Consider a Trial Project Before Committing

One of the best ways to evaluate a grant writer’s suitability is to offer them a trial project. This could be a smaller grant application or even a portion of a larger proposal. A trial project allows you to assess their writing style, attention to detail, and how well they communicate with your team. It’s a low-risk way to ensure they’re the right fit before making a long-term commitment.

Hiring a grant writer is a significant investment, but by following these best practices, you can increase the chances of finding someone who will help your nonprofit thrive. Don’t forget to download my free guide with seven additional tips to make the hiring process even smoother. Just fill out the form below to get started!