How to Answer: Are you able to accommodate non-traditional work hours?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Fundraising job interview.
16. Are you able to accommodate non-traditional work hours?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Fundraising often involves working evenings and weekends. Fundraisers might attend fundraising events, donor meetings, and networking events during these times, and they must be able to represent the organization professionally and effectively at any hour of the day.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Answer that you are able and willing to work outside the traditional 9-5 shift to support the organization's financial goals. The interviewer wants to hear that you are up for the challenge and excited to get started. Share that you understand fundraising requires flexibility and adaptability, and that also applies to one's work schedule.
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"Because of the nature of fundraising, I understand that special events and networking opportunities often occur in the evenings and on weekends. This is actually one of the qualities of a career in fundraising that I love since I am accustomed to working evenings and enjoy variations in my schedule. I am eager to embrace a position that allows me to step outside of the traditional working hours."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"In the past, I have traveled to other states and countries to lead domestic and international fundraising efforts. These experiences taught me the importance of adapting to a new schedule in a different environment quickly. I have worked every shift from early morning to all the way through the night. In addition, I have had to interact with donors and clients living in different time zones and feel confident in my ability to represent your organization well at any hour, any day of the week."
Written by Isaiah Swanson on April 19th, 2022