Illuminating the Work of the Worlds Civil Society Organization - Essay Example

? Table of Contents GuidedStar International Definition, Mission and Vision 2 Background, Management, and Supporters 3 Objectives and Issues 3 Interview Preparation – Analysis and Planning 4 Position: Manager of Global Data Acquisition 5 Personal Career Development – Analysis and Planning Addressing Weaknesses 7 Reflection and Evaluation 9 Appendices Appendix A 11 Appendix B 14 References GuideStar International – “Illuminating the Work of the World’s Civil Society Organization” Definition, Mission, and Vision GuideStar International is a civil society organization (CSO), a UK-registered charity, which strives to create reports on the activities and accomplishments of the world’s CSOs, so as to ensure that this information is visible and available to potential supporters of these programs. Guidestar seeks to complete this objective through the following system: make CSOs more visible, accountable, and effective enable more confident and effective philanthropy; and promote vibrant and well governed civil societies (GuideStar International, 2011) Created in 1994, the UK based charity (first founded in the US) chose its name, GuideStar, to represent their mission to act as a guiding star of information to other CSOs and to their stakeholders, to ensure that projects will receive the necessary attention and funding. GuideStar seeks to strengthen the role of CSOs through “transparent reporting”, which will serve to make the CSO more visible, and thus, more able to receive a fair contribution of resources for its programs and initiatives. In addition to supporting the growth of individual CSOs, GuideStar strives to create clear communication between the stakeholders involved, including the CSO, donors (governmental bodies and citizens) and supporters. In order to support these objectives, GuideStar has two visions: first, the systems employed by GuideStar will be running in over 30 countries, which will provide a comprehensive database of information that will create global networks, and promote trans-national charity; second, information on the operations and objectives CSOs will become available to its stakeholders, and this transparency will ensure that programs of value will be more likely to receive the funding necessary on a voluntary basis. The central vision involves the “effective and generous allocation of [society’s] resources” to legitimate and deserving CSOs (GuideStar International, 2011). Background, Management and Supporters GuideStar started in 1994 in the U.S. by founder Buzz Schmidt, and “has become the US’ premier non-profit database and is used extensively by most philanthropic institutions, non-profit organisations, corporations, individual donors, and government grant making agencies and regulators” (GuideStar International, 2011). After receiving the award of Non-profit Executive of the Year in 2001, the company expanded to the UK, where it launched a web service that provided information about charitable organizations in the UK. This has resulted in generating world interest in implementing the GuideStar system into global CSOs. The central founding figures in GuideStar are Buzz Schmidt, William H. Dietel, Dr. Virginia Hodgkinson, and Lady Hilary Browne-Wilkinson. These individuals are all leading figures in the non-profit sector, and have contributed significantly to the development of GuideStar in the US, the UK, and internationally. The current staff at the UK office consists of eight individuals, including Tinsley C. Goad, CEO, and Caroline Neligan, Director of Partnerships and Development. In addition, the supporters of GuideStar and TechSoup Global include: the Ford Foundation, The Philanthropic Collaborative, David and Lucille Packard Foundation, the Eten programme of the European Commission’s Information society and Media DG, pro bono support from Weber Shandwick. Objectives and Issues The central objective of GuideStar is to collect information on CSOs, create a comprehensive report, and provide donors and supporters unrestrained access to this information. GuideStar does not judge the merit or value of the CSO based on principles or measurements established by GuideStar, nor does it create reports that include information that has not been self-reported by the organization. It strives to act as a neutral party that collects and disseminates information, while leaving judgment of the organization to donors and supporters. GuideStar accomplishes its objectives by working with the key actors in CSOs, including grant makers, government regulators and policy makers, individual donors, and the media. Two issues that are of concern to GuideStar are, first, creating a platform that encourages the legitimate and credible reporting of the CSO’s organization by the CSO, and second, to ensure that this information is available to the stakeholders, including governments, individual donors, and society in general. For further information, GuideStar UK can be contacted via email or telephone at: GuideStar International Queens House 55-56 Lincoln’s Inn Fields London WC2A 3LJ United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 207 269 6549 Fax: +44 0870 112 3846 Email: info@guidestarinternational.org Interview Preparation – Analysis and Planning Initially, an excellent resume can get a candidate through the door; however, the image projected during the interview will, ultimately, decide whether the candidate is considered a “good fit”, and thus deserving of further interviews and a possible job offer (Leanne 2004: 55). Until the interview stage, it is difficult for the potential employer to ascertain the candidate’s character from his/her resume; therefore, projecting the right attributes for the job is imperative, especially when considering that there will be numerous other candidates who have similar educational and work experience backgrounds (Deluca & Deluca 2004: 5-6). Position: Manager of Global Data Acquisition The position at GuideStar is looking for a candidate who can fill three specific areas. First, the position requires knowledge of system management concepts, and of database management. Second, the candidate must possess interpersonal skills based on cultural sensitivity, leadership, and diplomacy. Last, the candidate must be competent and confident in his / her public speaking and communication abilities, as well as the ability to coordinate events that require filling structural (design, testing, etc.) and social (creating and attending conferences, initiating meetings between branches, donors, etc.) components. In regards to these three areas, my strengths reside in my individual competencies of flexibility, interpersonal understanding, and relationship building. Flexibility ensures the following characteristics: adaptability, perceptual objectivity, staying objective, resilience, and exhibiting behaviour that is contingent on the situation. As GuideStar states that its mission is to provide transparent information by CSOs to its stakeholders, being flexible, especially in terms of objectivity, is necessary. An example that illustrates this strength is my experience within the teaching field, which has required me to adapt to different settings and classroom dynamics, to transmit information and facilitate discussion as an objective and unbiased participator, to restructure or recreate class lectures or assignments on the spot, especially if the activity has failed to achieve the expected results, and to take on multiple roles of instructor, counselor, disciplinarian, and support network. One of the biggest challenges experienced in the teaching profession was the size of the classroom, which could include a student body of between 25 to 35 students, and the differing levels of academic ability among the students, which required creative use of collaborative learning among the students. This approach ensured that I utilized the strengths of the students in a peer-learning/teaching type of environment; students who excelled in academics and students who excelled in social situations (for example, public speaking) were paired or grouped together. In a position that requires liaisons between CSOs, governmental bodies, the media, etc., interpersonal understanding is key. As mentioned previously, a future goal of GuideStar is to implement its system in 30 international countries; therefore, empathy, sensitivity to others, diagnostic understanding, and awareness of others’ feelings are imperative to creating trans-national relationships between CSOs. As an individual who has had the opportunity to live in, and travel to several different countries, I am well aware of the challenges involved in navigating a new culture. As a result of these experiences, I am more sensitive to subtle cultural differences, confusions, habits, gestures, and behaviours. In addition, I am less sensitive to those behaviours that may seem offensive to an individual who has had little exposure to other cultures. This attribute will ensure that I will be able to deal with the challenges of creating international partnerships with global CSOs. Finally, although a component of the position requires technical know-how on creating and maintaining a comprehensive database, the dominant theme in the position posting was the emphasis on creating networks between the stakeholders in order to collect and provide accurate information, and to facilitate relationship building among the stakeholders. Through my teaching and traveling experience, I have developed a confidence in my ability to present myself – my ideas, concerns, and objectives – to a diverse audience. Being a good public speaker is essential for this position, which requires frequent networking between the stakeholders; being a teacher has enabled me to become a confident speaker who is able to play many “roles”, including that of authoritative educator, discussion facilitator, and cultural mediator. Personal Career Development – Analysis and Planning Addressing Weaknesses Addressing one’s weakness in an interview causes much undue stress; however, Leanne argues that there are three important ways to deal with the situation when the question is asked. First, the individual must not get defensive, so as not to give the impression that he or she is unable to handle criticism; second, avoid having an apologetic tone, which may emphasize a lack of self-confidence; and third, the candidate should be prepared to provide examples of how he or she overcame the weakness (or are currently addressing the weakness) to show the future employer that the candidate is able to persevere in the face of professional challenges (2004: 81). After reviewing the job posting, I was first concerned about the technical computer requirements. Although the emphasis is more on potential candidate’s ability to facilitate relationships between the stakeholders, and to establish and participate in meetings and conferences, he or she must also do the following: “assist in the design, development, and implementation of activities that collect, manage, and distribute CSO data at country, regional, and global levels”. This component of the job requires, as stated in the posting, “knowledge of the latest trends in web-based applications and services, especially related to social change initiatives.” Although I am competent in basic computer programs, which has been learned in my academic and professional careers, I do not have a background in complex computing systems. However, it should also be noted that the posting does not mention which systems GuideStar is currently using and, even after carefully reviewing their website, I will still unable to locate this information. As a way to overcome this weakness, I would, first, contact GuideStar to inquire about the specific computer knowledge required for the position, and second, I would do research on these programs prior to the interview. This will enable me a clearer understanding of what computer skills I already have, and which areas I need to further investigate. During the interview, my best course of action would be to inquire, again, about the skills needed, explain to the interviewer which areas I am competent in, and ask about in-house training, as well as advice on external training I may complete to gain the necessary skills. Finally, to demonstrate my dedication to acquiring the necessary skills, I would assure the interviewer that I will complete any in-house training they may provide (prior to, or during the job), and will investigate alternative means to educate myself in the functioning of their computer systems. In addition to computer skills, my second area of concern was the emphasis on English fluency. The posting does not mention that the candidate must be a native English speaker, simply a candidate who is fluent in spoken and written English; however, this frequently suggests that the company is looking for a native English speaker. To ensure that this will not be a hindrance, I will have my resume thoroughly checked and edited by a third party, so as to eliminate any grammatical or sentence structure errors that would imply that I am not fluent in English. In addition, prior to the interview, I will create a mock-interview scenario, in which I will create a list of potential questions and answers. This will guarantee that I have well thought out answers, with examples, to provide during the interview. Presenting myself as fluent during the interview is contingent on the pre-interview planning (as mentioned above), as well as remaining calm during the questioning process. Finally, if questions about my fluency are raised, I can reassure the interviewer that I am currently in a Master’s program, at an English speaking university, and was accepted in this program based on the program admissions’ perception of my ability to successfully complete this program. Reflection and Evaluation This process has raised several key issues, including preparedness, winning attributes, and overcoming weaknesses. The reason why I was initially drawn to this job posting was because of its focus on relationship building with other CSOs, its focus on research and information dissemination, and its international growth potential. Although I may not have the exact computer skills necessary for this position, I believe that my interpersonal skills, such as my comfort with public speaking, especially in diverse crowds, will far outweigh my lack of computer skills that can be easily acquired through in-house and external training avenues. In addition, I anticipate that completing my Master’s program will ensure that I continue educating and improving my computer and English language skills; research, report writing, presentations, and thesis defense will provide the necessary practice in presenting my ideas with authority and confidence, which will prove invaluable when working with GuideStar partners and forming new relationships with potential partners. At present, it is difficult to clearly articulate how my Master’s project will help in achieving my career goals, especially because it is still in its infancy. However, as a result of my past teaching and travel experiences, and because of the centrality of intercultural communication in the global world, I am leaning towards conducting research on cultural influences on approaches to decision making. I feel that this focus would be particularly useful for the position of Manager of Global Data Acquisition, which has a strong emphasis on relationship building and networking in an international context. In addition to my future research and presentation experiences with my Master’s thesis, my undergraduate project, which was focused on the affects of chemical weapons on the environment, served to bolster my abilities in designing and implementing an experiment, conducting theoretical and empirical research on the topic, making interpretations and challenging assumptions, and drawing out conclusions. As GuideStar is focused on creating a comprehensive database that compiles accurate information from CSOs, my previous and future research project skills will ensure that I am competent report writer. Appendices: Appendix A: Attached below is the website and job positing. http://london.craigslist.co.uk/bus/2172945763.html Manager of Global Data Acquisition (Central London) Date: 2011-01-21, 9:45PM GMT Reply to: see below  Position Summary:  GuideStar International (GSI), a UK-registered charity, seeks a Manager of Global Data Acquisition. This position will be located in GSI’s London office, which focuses on developing and supporting systems that collect, manage, and deliver global data to a wide variety of users.  Based in central London, GSI helps leaders in countries around the world build electronic information systems that aggregate and present timely, comprehensive and accurate information about the work of their civil society organizations (CSOs). Such information generates more confident, generous and discerning decision-making around the work of these vital organizations. Improved decision-making, in turn, enables more vibrant and prosperous civil societies within individual countries and more effective philanthropy and nonprofit practice throughout the world.  In March 2010, GSI combined with TechSoup Global (TSG), a US-based 501(c)3 public charity. TSG helps other nonprofits acquire, understand, and use technology to better serve their missions. Through its product donation service, nonprofits, CSOs, and libraries will find a broad range of software donated by leading tech companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Symantec, Intuit, and Adobe, along with content and community resources targeted specifically at a nonprofit audience.  As a result of this combination, the enterprise is pursuing new initiatives to leverage its combined global network and data management expertise.  This is a fulltime position, and will report to the Chief Executive of GuideStar International.  Major Duties and Responsibilities:  Your main responsibilities will be to support the development and implementation of global data acquisition strategies and programs. In supporting TSG/GSI Global Data acquisition, you will be expected to:  • Assist in the design, development, and implementation of activities that collect, manage, and distribute CSO data at country, regional, and global levels.  • Develop and manage engagements with operational and strategic partners, with a focus on Europe but extending globally as circumstances require.  • Continually inform the enhancement of global data services by ensuring that stakeholder experiences and requirements are communicated efficiently to the technical development teams.  • Represent the enterprise in external engagements such as conferences, speaking engagements, and key sector groups.  • Work closely with colleagues in TSG’s San Francisco headquarters and Warsaw office to ensure proper integration of GSI activities with other TSG programs.  • Escalate concerns and opportunities to the Chief Executive.  Qualifications:  Education and Experience  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.  • At least 5 years of experience in business or nonprofit sector preferably with operational management experience in the development and delivery of IT-based products and services.  • Significant professional experience working internationally.  • Significant experience with Web-based operations, including the delivery and management of information services and using Web-based applications as tools for social change.  • A passion for helping civil society become more effective through better use of information and technology.  Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:  Knowledge:  • Knowledge of the latest trends in web-based applications and services, especially related to social change initiatives.  • Comfortable with systems management concepts (problem and change management)  • Working knowledge of database management concepts and the opportunities and limitations inherent in managing electronic information.  Skills:  • Diplomacy and teamwork  • Cultural sensitivity  • Strong project management skills  • Proven leadership and delivery skills  Abilities:  • Ability to manage complex projects in a heavily matrixed environment, coordinating activities for requirements, design, development, testing, implementation and support with other areas of the organization.  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.  • Comfortable with public speaking  • Fluent in English  Other Requirements:  Potential for local, regional and international travel  Application Procedure:  Email the required cover letter and resume to info@guidestarinternational.org with the job title in subject heading.  Location: Central London Compensation: ?40,000 per annum Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster. Please, no phone calls about this job! Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests. Appendix B: Attached below is my Curriculum Vitae References Bain, C., 2005. The Secret to Obtaining: the Keys to the Art Room Preparing for a Successful Interview. Art Education, 58, 49+. Retrieved January 23, 2011, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5044923871 Deluca, M. J., & Deluca, N. F., 2004. 24 Hours to the Perfect Interview: Quick Steps for Planning, Organizing and Preparing for the Interview That Gets the Job. New York: McGraw-Hill. Leanne, S., 2004. How to Interview like a Top MBA: Job-Winning Strategies from Headhunters, Fortune 100 Recruiters, and Career Counselors. New York: McGraw-Hill. Parker, L. B., 2003. Preparation: Succeeding in Your On-campus Interview.Black Collegian, 34, 31+. Retrieved January 23, 2011, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5037668229 Wyche, A., 1999. Preparing for the On-site Interview. Black Collegian, 29, pp. 72+. Retrieved January 23, 2011, from Questia database: http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5037662806 Read More