Top tips for charity jobseekers preparing for 2026

(Plus a new career support webinar)

As we move into 2026, the landscape for charity recruitment in the UK continues to shift rapidly. With tighter budgets, hybrid working norms and a growing demand for skills across digital, fundraising and leadership roles, preparing effectively for your next step has never been more important. At Charisma Charity Recruitment, we’re passionate about helping talented professionals like you navigate this journey with clarity, confidence and purpose.

And this year, there’s an exciting new resource on offer: a six‑part webinar and training series launched by our CEO, Adam Stacey. These series are designed specifically to help charity jobseekers overcome their biggest career challenges. More on that below.

1. Shape a CV that shows impact

Your CV isn’t just a list of roles, it’s a story about what you’ve achieved and how you make a difference. Recruiters in the charity sector want to see:

• Clear, measurable outcomes (e.g., funds raised, engagement results)
• A concise two‑page format
• Achievements tailored to each specific job you apply for

Use language that reflects charity values, teamwork, empathy and mission focus not only technical tasks.

2. Write a cover letter that reflects your motivation

In the charity sector, your motivations matter just as much as your skills. When crafting your cover letter:

• Speak directly to the charity’s mission
• Explain why you’re passionate about their work
• Connect your experience to what they need now

Keep it short but personal, this isn’t a formality, it’s a chance to show that you get the organisation’s purpose and culture.

3. Prepare for values‑led interviews

Charity interviews often explore how you work as much as what you know.

To succeed:

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure responses
• Demonstrate emotional intelligence, empathy, resilience and collaboration
• Ask insightful questions about impact, culture and priorities

Showing that you align with an organisation’s values can be a real differentiator.

4. Build digital and soft skills

Across the sector, charities are investing in digital tools, CRM and data to manage fundraising, campaigns and supporter engagement. Demonstrating capability with systems and data‑informed thinking will make you more competitive.

At the same time, soft skills especially communication, adaptability and problem‑solving remain highly sought after in every role, from entry level to senior leadership.

5. Network with intention

Networking isn’t optional: it’s essential. Attend sector events, connect with recruiters and engage purposefully on LinkedIn. Conversations can lead to opportunities long before roles are advertised.

Joining relevant professional groups, like those focused on charity leadership or specialist functions, can give you insights into where the sector is heading in 2026.

6. Understand what employers really want

In today’s charity recruitment landscape, organisations are prioritising:

• Transferable skills (in fundraising, finance, project management)
• Mission alignment
• Inclusive approaches to hiring
• Flexible working norms.

It’s not enough to want to work for a cause, you need to show how your track record will help them achieve measurable impact.

7. Follow up and stay professional

If you’ve done well in an interview, a short, thoughtful thank‑you note can reinforce your interest and professionalism. Honour agreed timelines and communicate clearly at every stage of the process.

8. New for 2026: Charity Careers Network by Adam Stacey

This year, Adam Stacey, CEO of Charisma Charity Recruitment, experienced charity leader and podcast host, has launched the Charity Careers Network. 

This new online community includes:

·       A six‑part video training series, covering every key stage of charity recruitment, from CVs and cover letters to LinkedIn profiles, interviews and offers. It’s self‑paced and practical, designed specifically for the charity sector.

·       Weekly live webinars

These interactive sessions tackle real career challenges together, from understanding recruitment bottlenecks to improving confidence with interviews and positioning yourself for promotion.

·       A supportive community

Participants share experiences, ask questions and learn from one another in a safe, intentional space tailored to charity careers.

Adam launched this network because too many talented professionals know they want more but don’t have the support or clarity to get there. The Charity Careers Network aims to change that.

2026 is a year of opportunity for charity jobseekers, but success takes strategy, support and courage. With a strong CV, thoughtful interview preparation, ongoing networking and resources like the Charity Careers Network, you’ll be better equipped to secure a role where you can truly make a difference.