Nonprofit leadership: Managing Vs. Leading

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In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria and Caitlin explore the key differences between being a boss versus being a leader and why leadership gaps are causing burnout and turnover in the nonprofit sector. They share insights into how nonprofit leaders can foster trust, create a supportive work environment, and empower their teams for long-term success. Whether you're managing staff for the first time or looking to refine your leadership approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice. 

Nonprofit leadership: Managing Vs. Leading— The highlights: 

  • Boss vs. Leader: What’s the difference? 

  • The impact of poor leadership in nonprofits 

  • The traits of an effective nonprofit leader 

🎧 Listen to more episodes for actionable fundraising tips and insights on nonprofit leadership, nonprofit governance, productivity & tools, and donor engagement strategies that work. We're here to eliminate nonprofit burnout and boost your donations!

Actionable tips for Nonprofits: 

Foster psychological safety: Encourage open communication and feedback within your team. 
Seek mentorship & coaching: Great leaders never stop learning—invest in executive coaching or peer mentorship. 
Lead by example: If you want a positive, motivated team, you must embody those traits first
Encourage smart risk-taking: Nonprofits often fear failure too much—innovation requires taking calculated risks. 
Hold leaders accountable: If an ED or manager is ineffective, address the leadership issue instead of blaming staff.

Resources: 

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Coming Up Next Week on the Small Nonprofit Podcast: 

P.S. Join us next week as Caitlin and I dive into the hiring challenges nonprofits are facing in 2025—and what you can do to find and keep the right talent! 

Maria

Maria leads the Further Together team. Maria came to Canada as a refugee at an early age. After being assisted by many charities, Maria devoted herself to working in non-profit.

Maria has over a decade of fundraising experience. She is a sought-after speaker on issues related to innovative stewardship, building relationships, and Community-Centric Fundraising. She has spoken at AFP ICON and Congress, for Imagine Canada, APRA, Xlerate, MNA, and more. She has been published nationally, and was a finalist for the national 2022 Charity Village Best Individual Fundraiser Award. Maria also hosts The Small Nonprofit podcast and sits on the Board of Living Wage Canada.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariario/
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