Red (and Green) Flags for Fundraising Applicants and Hiring Nonprofits

Identifying nonprofit fundraising talent is more critical than ever. In the wake of federal funding cuts, nonprofits are seeking fundraisers to diversify revenue and safeguard their missions. As a result, it’s increasingly important for experienced fundraising candidates to stand out.

As an executive search recruiter for nonprofit fundraising roles, I’m regularly surprised by how often even seasoned candidates miss the mark on the very things that would help their applications rise to the top. I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the “did they really submit this?” And it’s not just the candidates. I’m equally amazed by hiring nonprofits that overlook these basics when selecting top candidates.

Whether you’re applying or hiring, here are a few clear red and green flags to consider:

Red Flags

• You skip or gloss over your cover letter or application questions. 
  A generic “see resume” or “happy to discuss further” makes it clear you’re not invested. Failing to submit a cover letter or neglecting to fully answer application questions (or submitting a two-line placeholder) is a fast pass to the “no” pile.
• You use a completely AI-generated cover letter. 
  Believe me, we can tell. Letters that mirror the position description line by line are easy to spot. Yes, align your experience, but we’re looking for your voice and motivation, not a bot’s summary of our posting.
• There is no mention of the organization, job title, or mission in your cover letter.
  A cover letter that doesn’t include the organization’s name or the title of the job signals you’re not truly interested. If you don’t have time to customize, don’t apply. Demonstrate that you’re mission-aligned and looking for this job.
• Your cover letter and resume lack fundraising metrics/successes.
  “Led major gifts program” tells us nothing. “Worked with a team to raise $2 million” is vague. Fundraising is measurable. Own it.
• You don’t explain career gaps or short tenures.
  Don’t make a recruiter guess. If there’s a gap in your resume, tell us why. Life happens. So does family leave, restructuring, or a move across the country. But if you don’t explain your story, we’re left to fill in the blanks. Tell us why now is the right time for you to make a move—context matters.

Green Flags

• You show results and how you achieved them.
  “Increased major gifts revenue from $500K to $1.2M by re-engaging 20 lapsed donors and launching a stewardship initiative” shows both skill and strategic thinking.
• You include both leading and lagging indicators.
  Mentioning the number of stewardship touchpoints or pipeline growth demonstrates your understanding of the full fundraising cycle.
• Your cover letter reflects your “why” and “why now”.
  When you share why the organization and its mission matter to you personally, and why this moment is the right time for you to move, it reflects authenticity. It also adds a glimpse of your personality, helping us imagine you on the team.
• You’re transparent about career movement.
  You don’t need to justify every step, but you should explain your career shifts. Show that you’re intentional and reflective about your trajectory and goals.
• You’ve done your homework.
  Set yourself apart. Do your research and clearly understand the organization’s current challenges, opportunities, and strategic direction before applying. Referring to a recent campaign, program, or piece of news shows that you’re proactive, not just browsing job boards.

Hiring the right fundraiser can make or break a nonprofit’s future. These red and green flags are more than etiquette; they are early indicators of success. That’s why partnering with an executive search firm that understands nonprofit fundraising is a smart investment.

At The Moran Company, we know how to read between the lines and spot the red (and green!) flags early. We help nonprofits avoid hiring missteps to help you build a knowledgeable fundraising team that’s equipped to fund the future. If your nonprofit needs help recruiting top talent for a senior-level fundraising position, contact us today for a free 30-minute consultation.

By Angie Heer, M.A., CFRE, CSJA
Senior Search Consultant
The Moran Company
“We Find Great Nonprofit Leaders”